New partnership in Rigby helps feed hungry
A new partnership in Rigby is creating some buzz on Facebook. The Rigby Police Department and the Giving Cupboard have teamed up to help feed the hungry.
“We come across a lot of people in unfortunate circumstances and a lot of times food is a struggle for them,” said Chief Sam Tower.
After Tower went to the Giving Cupboard‘s open house Tuesday and learned more about the need for food security, he had an idea. He wanted to partner with the food pantry. Both thought it was a great idea.
“I just said, ‘You know what? I’m going to get right on this,'” Tower said. “I moved some stuff around in my schedule. (My administrative assistant and I) just got on it and we made the vouchers up and I posted about it.”
That Facebook post has more than 150 shares and is full of positive comments.
“That Facebook post I think has probably launched us into the stratosphere,” said Naomi Schilling, the president of the Giving Cupboard.
The post also gave a more in-depth explanation about the whole idea.
“One of the main things we come across because part of the domestic violence cycle is power and control, the suspect is usually the only breadwinner,” Tower said. “They are the sole earner for that home.”
Tower said being in that situation can sway the victim’s mind to report the abuse. The Rigby Police Department and the Giving Cupboard believe that the voucher system with the Giving Cupboard can help put an end to that.
Officers will issue the vouchers and include information like how many adults and children are in the family and any special considerations.
“They call the Giving Cupboard and they get a food box for them ASAP,” Tower said.
Families can even get a food box on non-distribution days from the food pantry.
“We’ve not had an opportunity to reach that part of the community,” Schilling said. “Through this program, it is going to be just incredibly positive.”
The Rigby Police Department said this way nobody goes hungry– at least not on their watch.
“That allows my officers to not only assist legally but assist in a very basic need with nutrition and providing for a family that might be struggling,” Tower said.
The Giving Cupboard is open the first Tuesday and third Thursday of every month.
