The purpose of the Food Bank Network of Somerset County is to provide food and other essentials to people of low economic means in Somerset County, and to do so with dignity and respect for both the person giving and the person receiving. Food is distributed through food pantries, which are open every Saturday in different towns in the county. Members of St. John’s volunteer every Saturday in February and October to staff the Somerville Food Pantry. They help clients fill out the forms to determine needs and then pack and distribute the food.
Throughout the year, donations of canned goods, baby formula, dry milk, boxes of cereal, pasta, and other staples are welcomed. The Food Bank Barrel is located outside the Church office. They can also use paper and plastic supermarket bags.
The Food Bank Network also provides food for group homes and shelters. The Agape House, HOME of SC, Home Sharing, and Catholic Charities are just a few. During the holidays of Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, they collect turkeys and hams to help fill holiday baskets. The Food Bank distributes these baskets though the social service agencies.
Since their incorporation in 1982, they have been made aware of other needs within our community and have started several programs to respond to these needs. These programs include: The Aid for Friends program which was originated to help the elderly shut-ins. Church groups and individuals prepare frozen meals at home, which are then delivered by volunteers on weekends to those who would not otherwise have a hot, nourishing meal.