We understand that accessing an adequate food supply can be challenging at times. That’s why New Hope is committed to providing help and Hope to those in need. An intake interview is now required for everyone, even if you already have card with your shopper I.D. If you require food and/or spiritual assistance, please follow the steps below as soon as possible:
- Schedule an intake interview with one of our friendly volunteers. Interviews are currently being held on Tuesdays in the New Hope Church building. Simply call (804) 932-3967 to schedule an appointment. You should allow about one hour for the interview process. The purpose of the interview is for us to get to know you and your situation better, so that you are not just another number or car to us. We also understand that many times food is not the only need. We do have other resources, and a great network of awesome people. Often we receive donations other than food. The more we know about your situation, the more we can help.
- Notification: Once you have completed your intake, you will immediately be placed on our Text message Blast list. Since we are still in the process of building new resources, our distribution times are not yet being held on a regular schedule. So we will send out a text message notifying our shoppers and volunteers of the next “Pop up Pantry” distribution. These messages will be sent to your cell phone usually 1-2 days before a Pop up Pantry takes place. If you do not have a cell phone, or can not easily operate it, please make us aware of that during your intake process.
- Distribution Day: On the day of food distribution, please make sure to arrive before the given start time. There is no longer a window of time to shop. You must arrive by the stated time. Upon your arrival, please gather inside the church building where you can wait on comfortable chairs in a temperature controlled environment. There are also restrooms available. You will be checked in by name to ensure you are on the qualified shopper list. We will share a brief Word, a prayer and any special instructions. Qualified shoppers, those who have gone through the intake process, will be called out to shop in groups of 4-5.
- Shopping: The actual shopping for the food will take place in the tent, after your group has been called. Be sure to dress for the weather. When we have an abundance of an item, we might encourage you to take more. When this happens, please do so and share it with others you know who are in need. There will often be ample volunteers to help pull your wagon as you load it with food, and help you to your car. If you have any reusable shopping bags, or cold storage bags, we ask that you use them. If you receive food in glass jars, we ask that you return the jars on your next visit so that we can continue to fill and distribute them!
- If there is ever a time you are in need, but cannot make it to a Pantry distribution, please let us know. We often have volunteers that will deliver. Simply respond to the latest Text message you received.
- There is no charge for the food, but of course donations are always welcome. New Hope Food Pantry is a large undertaking with many needs of its own. The expenses to run the cold storage equipment is high and so is fuel and repairs. We appreciate anything you can do to give back, whether it’s time, expertise, service or monetary donations.
Please note that due to high demand and limited resources, we may have specific guidelines or criteria in place to determine eligibility, prioritize assistance and limit quantities. We strive to serve as many individuals and families as possible, while ensuring fairness and equitable distribution.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (804) 932-3967. Our dedicated team is ready to support you and provide the help you need.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. God is your Provider and He has placed us here to offer help and Hope during these challenging times. Together, we can make a positive difference in your life and the lives of others.