The COVID-19 crisis has affected us all in many ways. From health concerns to industry shutdowns, we’ve all experienced a change in our day to day lives. Unfortunately for many in the Richmond community, those changes have included unemployment and/or loss of wages, as well as an increased food insecurity. While many schools are continuing to offer free meals for kids and their families, even throughout the summer months, there are still others in the Greater Richmond community who need assistance. And that’s exactly what inspired The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen to create a new Community Food Pantry – a free food pantry that is open and available to anyone in need.
Take What You Need or Donate Anytime
The new food pantry is located at The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen (2880 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060) on the left side of the parking lot. Designed to provide easy access for those needing food or basic household items, as well as those looking to donate, the food pantry works much like a food drive box. From dry and canned goods to small personal care and household items, community members are welcome to stop by and take what they need or donate to this cause by adding items to the box.
Taking Care of Others in Times of Need
The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen has long been a go-to resource for the arts, from classes for adults, teens, and youth to live music and theater. Of course, like venues across the nation, they have had to cancel many of their regular programs due to COVID-19 restrictions and safety protocol. The food pantry came about as a way to continue reaching out to the community and providing support to those in need.
The Center’s president, K. Alferio, says, “We know that these times are taking a huge toll on so many businesses and individuals. Creating a place to share with those in need was something we really wanted to facilitate. When the need for food sharing subsidies, we plan to convert the area into a place to share art supplies. If these tragic times have taught us anything, it is to take care of others.”
It’s efforts like the Community Food Pantry at The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen that remind us just how important it is to come together during times of crisis and show just how much we can do with a little creativity and generosity.
How You Can Donate to the Community Food Pantry
Join us in supporting this amazing effort by dropping of donations of new, unopened household goods, toiletries, dry foods, or canned goods directly in the food pantry box and remember this quote from the team at The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen: Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much!
To see more businesses and organizations in the Richmond area who have gone above and beyond to support their community, be sure to visit Richmond Mom’s Community Spotlight.
About The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen
The Center’s mission is to inspire and enrich the Greater Richmond community by offering exceptional performances, classes, and visual arts exhibits. They offer residents and visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the arts, entertain new ideas, develop a new talent, and experience first-hand, all the best this community has to offer.
Visit www.artsglenallen.com to learn more about The Center, or click here to see a list of available socially-distanced summer classes and register online.
