A local food pantry is seeking donations of both money and time in anticipation of a surge in patrons in light of the cessation of SNAP benefits at the end of this month.

Community Friends Food Pantry was started by Tracy Jacomo and friends in 2019 to serve individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Jacomo said November and December are already their busiest months, but with SNAP ending, extra funds and volunteers are needed to handle the extra volume.

“We need more help this year than ever with extra monetary and food donations to serve those in need,” Jacomo said. “The pantry is possible due to individuals, family friends, businesses owners, the American Legion and two churches in the Seminole community that donate food, money and provide volunteers each month to help people in need. It would not be possible without this support to serve our community.”

To make a donation or to volunteer, contact Jacomo at (405) 584-0960. According to Jacomo, in the last six months the pantry averaged between 120 to 158 people. Over the last 24 months food has been provided to 777 families consisting of 1,491 Adults and 1,189 children.

Food is distributed the third Saturday of every month at The Seminole Municipal Building lobby from 10 a.m. – 12 noon.