Pay It Forward: The Giving Cupboard
The food bank in Jefferson County is changing the way it is managed to better serve those in need. KIDK Eyewitness News 3 anchor Todd Kunz went to check it out and to Pay It Forward.
“Great community support. Absolutely terrific,” said new president, Naomi Schilling.
It’s now called The Giving Cupboard. It now has a new name and new management. Just recently, it moved out from under the direction of the county, and became it’s own nonprofit. As a 501(c)(3), it will now have access to grants and programs, that it couldn’t before. It is located in the basement of the Rigby City Library, but it’s looking for a new location to expand size and days available. Right now, it serves an average of 60 Jefferson County families one day a month.
“With our extended hours, we’ll be able to serve them better,” said Schilling.
The Giving Cupboard has three people on the board of directors and a community steering committee of nine. Plus, a long list of important volunteers.
“I believe right now, there are probably about 15 names on that list,” said Schilling.
The help is needed, because the need is great. The ALICE Report is prepared by the United Way. It shows 35% of Jefferson County is either at or below the poverty level.
“These are the working poor and these are the families that we are targeting through The Giving Cupboard,” said Schilling.
It’s time to help them out and time to Pay It Forward.
“So the needs are tremendous. There’s a large unserved part of our population,” said Schilling.
“Naomi, how are you?” asked a man walking into the storage room.
“Hi,” replied Schilling.
“Hi. I’m Kory with Mountain America Credit Union,” said the man.
“Oh, hi. How are you?” Schilling asked.
“We’ve heard so much about the new organization and what you’re doing,” said Carling.
“Yes. Yes,” said Schilling.
“And I’m here today to Pay it Forward,” said Carling.
“You are are?” asked Schilling.
“So I’ve brought with me today, on behalf of Mountain America Credit Union, $500 in cash,” said Carling.
“Oh my goodness!” said Schilling.
“That I know you are going to put toward use and continue to help the members of our community. And continue to serve them,” said Carling.
“Oh! That’s incredible! Oh, my goodness. Thank you so very much!” said Schilling.
“You are welcome,” said Carling.
“What a surprise! Oh, this is amazing! Thank you so much. This will help us tremendously. You don’t know what this means to us. It’s a remarkable give that you’re giving here today, so thank you. Thank you, thank you very much,” said Schilling.
“You’re welcome,” said Carling.
“Wow!” said Schilling.
“It’s The Giving Cupboard,” said Kunz.
“Oh, it’s The Giving Cupboard and what big hearts you have to do this for us. We are so appreciative. Wow! I totally did not expect this. This is just amazing,” said Schilling.
Previously, the food bank had been operated by the county for 20 years according to county clerk Colleen Poole.
Once it expands and finds its new home, it will be structured as a client-choice food pantry. The plan is to be open once a week. They will always take your donations and volunteer time.
“Pay It Forward” airs the second Wednesday of every month. If you know of a nonprofit organization or someone who deserves to be recognized for their contributions to the area, click on “Pay It Forward” on the right side of our website and fill out the form, or send an email to KIDK Eyewitness News 3 anchor Todd Kunz at tkunz@kidk.com.
