Path to the Pantry

 May 2026

Gail Wham

CHANGE AND SAVE THE DATE…GARDENFEST IS SATURDAY JUNE 13!

The date for GardenFest has been pushed back so mark your calendars for this fun community event. North County Food Pantry garden volunteers have been busy planting seeds and tending seedlings so you can get a head start on your home garden. A wide variety of vegetable and herb starts will be distributed FREE to those in attendance. In addition, there will be children’s activities and a BBQ lunch.  Join us from 11-2 for this outdoor event at the Pantry just north of Country Church of the Open Bible across from the Elk Cemetery on Elk-to-Highway.

The North County Food Pantry has served the communities of Chattaroy and Elk for decades. Started by a woman who saw a need, the Pantry has expanded services to a growing number of clients over the years. Today it takes 60 volunteers to operate the Pantry. Some work several shifts a week, others work once a month, others share their skills to work on specific projects. Last month we recognized the Monday crew who serves clients. This month we honor the Wednesday volunteers…

Janet is the face of the Pantry at the front desk on Wednesday mornings. Debra and Karen are in the kitchen preparing a hot meal and coffee for clients and volunteers. Our shoppers assist clients in the warehouse. They include Pat, Linda, Mary, and Debbie. The warehouse crew is headed by Lary and includes Bonnie, Bernie, Chris, Charley, Gail, Michelle and Megan. Bill, Dave, Carolyn, Joanne, Rowdy and Ryder all wear multiple hats on Wednesday morning, serving in a variety of capacities. All are supervised by Lora, the director of the Pantry who is often on site 5 days a week. It truly does take a village to keep this vital community resource operating. Joining our team of volunteers is easy…simply call Lora at 509-292-2530 or stop by during public hours on Monday from 10-2 or Wednesday from 8:30-noon.