Being left holding the bag at Clarion First Presbyterian Church is not a bad thing. In fact, it can be life saving.
The church has established a “Food Bag” ministry that allows area residents to receive a bag filled with numerous “pantry items.” Those items include canned meat, pasta, cereal, canned vegetables and other items.
“We have seen a huge demand across all walks of life,” said Food Bag committee member Elaine Matticks. “Since the program’s inception we have assisted over 100 area families.”
“We serve everyone, no questions asked,” said Matticks. “We have seen people from Oil City, Rimersburg, Sligo and Strattanville. Pretty much the entire county and then some,” Matticks added.
Matticks said that while the program started as a result of the COVID-19 quarantine it will continue after the pandemic is over.
“As long as we see a need, we will continue to do it,” she said. “Going forward we hope to include fresh vegetables and fruit.”
“We started out funding the program through our church but when you are buying $1,500 worth of food every month you need some help,” Matticks said.
“We welcome additional contributions,” said Matticks.
The bags are available from 10 a.m. to noon Thursdays at the church, which is located at 700 Wood St., Clarion.