Live Civilly Food Pantry Opens at St. Matthew

The generosity of Moorestown students has helped launch the live civilly Food Pantry at .

When the Buss sisters—Anna, Grace and Abigail—and their parents, Joe and Kahra, created , the girls’ friends wanted to know how they could help. The end result was a in the schools that will run through the end of April and a food pantry that will continue to serve the needs of the community.

The pantry, which is open the second and fourth Friday of the month (this month, the pantry is open the second and fifth Friday because of the Easter holiday), grows each month. The pantry is open from noon to 2 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.

“It is evident to me that this is needed,” said Kahra Buss. “Now that the word I getting out, we’re starting to see how quickly (the pantry) gets used.”

The pantry has collected thousands of pounds of food. And although the food drive will end in the schools, food is still needed and being collected.

“I implore people to continue to donate,” said Buss.

“We want to make it a permanent thing in the community,” said Buss. “It’s great for us to take advantage of the energy and commitment of people.”

The project has gained the support of corporate sponsors, including defense contractor Mission Solutions Engineering and NW Sign Industries. The Girl Scouts have made collecting food for the pantry an ongoing community service project.

And Joe Galbraith, library director, announced will have Food for Fines Week April 25-30.

“The library, in partnership with the folks at Live Civilly, are collecting
food to help replenish the food pantry at St. Matthew Lutheran Church on
Chester Avenue in Moorestown,” Galbraith said.

During the week, patrons can bring in one non-perishable food item and
the library will waive the overdue fee on one item, up to $5. Items that
are lost, damaged or missing are not eligible.

“There’s a need here in town,” said Buss.

Word of the pantry has been spread by word of mouth and through MEND and the township’s church community so those who need its services know about it.

“It’s modest and it’s private,” said Buss of the pantry housed in a small storage area at the church.

“It makes you think–we’re not that far apart,” Buss said. “It helps you remember what’s important. It’s been an amazing experience.”

Donations are accepted at St. Matthew Lutheran Church and the library. The pantry is in need of nonperishable foods including canned meats, cereals, soups and canned meals.