Rockbridge food pantry strives to feed hungry locals
Robert Armstrong
Issue date: 1/26/05 Section: News
"We've broken down the entire program into simple systems," Shultis said. "There's a point where working harder won't get you any further. The answer is to work smarter," he added.
In order to quickly package food into boxes for families, Shultis introduced a codified system of "A" and "B" boxes. Each box has a preset list and can be assembled in seconds. Shultis believes the operation must be simple enough to accommodate volunteers who may work for only half an hour at a time.
"We can't be a Mom and Pop operation any longer," Shultis said.
Cody Kitchen, 12, has volunteered at the RARA food pantry for almost a month. When asked about the boxing system, the young Boy Scout said it was "very easy to do on my own."
While Shultis may be the team leader, he continually gives credit to the many volunteers who help make the RARA food pantry possible. Most of the locals who donate their time and efforts are retired and "absolutely outstanding," said Shultis.
Mary Bergen, a retired Lexington woman, has spent three months volunteering with the pantry. Her job has been working the desk and keeping records of those visiting the pantry for emergency assistance.
Bergen has seen a significant increase in the number of people coming through since she began. "Every month, there's always more," she said.
In 1972, RARA was formed in a joint operation between several Lexington-area churches in order to combine efforts in helping the local poor. Since its formation, the non-profit organization has expanded significantly, acquiring 501(c)(3) status from the IRS.
The organization's director, Mary Brown, said the food pantry could not be as effective without having moved to its current location at the former Rockbridge Free Clinic. Years ago, the pantry was based in an old house on Randolph Street that was in shambles.
Brown and Shultis are determined to meet new demands. As part of an effort to collect more contributions, RARA has added a public relations position to the all-volunteer staff.
In order to quickly package food into boxes for families, Shultis introduced a codified system of "A" and "B" boxes. Each box has a preset list and can be assembled in seconds. Shultis believes the operation must be simple enough to accommodate volunteers who may work for only half an hour at a time.
"We can't be a Mom and Pop operation any longer," Shultis said.
Cody Kitchen, 12, has volunteered at the RARA food pantry for almost a month. When asked about the boxing system, the young Boy Scout said it was "very easy to do on my own."
While Shultis may be the team leader, he continually gives credit to the many volunteers who help make the RARA food pantry possible. Most of the locals who donate their time and efforts are retired and "absolutely outstanding," said Shultis.
Mary Bergen, a retired Lexington woman, has spent three months volunteering with the pantry. Her job has been working the desk and keeping records of those visiting the pantry for emergency assistance.
Bergen has seen a significant increase in the number of people coming through since she began. "Every month, there's always more," she said.
In 1972, RARA was formed in a joint operation between several Lexington-area churches in order to combine efforts in helping the local poor. Since its formation, the non-profit organization has expanded significantly, acquiring 501(c)(3) status from the IRS.
The organization's director, Mary Brown, said the food pantry could not be as effective without having moved to its current location at the former Rockbridge Free Clinic. Years ago, the pantry was based in an old house on Randolph Street that was in shambles.
Brown and Shultis are determined to meet new demands. As part of an effort to collect more contributions, RARA has added a public relations position to the all-volunteer staff.