Our Ministries
Community Cupboard Volunteer FAQ
Where is the Community Cupboard mobile food pantry located?
The pantry is held at the Countryside Community Church (8787 Pacific, Omaha) gymnasium, formally named the Truhlsen Community Center. It is considered a mobile pantry because there is not a permanent food pantry onsite. Instead, Together, Inc. delivers food the day of the pantry, and we set up something similar to a farmer’s market/grocery store.
What time do volunteers need to arrive?
Volunteers arrive at 9:00 a.m. and are needed until 11:30 or so. A few times the pantry has lasted until noon.
What time is the pantry open for shopping?
The pantry is open 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Shoppers usually start lining up hours before the start time.
How do we set up for the pantry?
A “mini grocery store” is set up in the gymnasium. A few volunteers arrive early to welcome visitors into Memorial Hall at 8:30 for snacks, kids movie, live music. The pantry team is currently working on providing helpful services for people while they wait to shop.
Are there set limits on any of the food?
Some items that we do not have a lot of will have a limit of 1 item per family. For instance, cakes, meat, and some dairy are usually limited to 1. Signs are posted to let everyone know any limits.
Where does the food come from and what is the cost?
The USDA food is provided and delivered free of charge by Together, Inc. Countryside help start Together in 1975. Together is the first stop for people in need. They provide education, guidance and services such as food, clothing, living essentials and financial assistance to prevent people from becoming homeless.
Where does the money come from to run the pantry?
The seed money to start the pantry was made possible through a generous 2010 grant from Countryside’s Board of Christian Outreach. In addition to grant money, we have been fortunate to get support through ongoing fundraisers, and individual donations. The Community Cupboard is the grateful recipient of Countryside’s Easter offering in 2012.
Are the Community Cupboard aprons for sale?
Yes, the aprons are $20.00 each. The proceeds help support the Community Cupboard.
