“We have two purposes: A clinical side and outreach and this fits what we do,” she said. “The coalition reached out to us to improve the health and welfare in our community. The need was obvious. Many people have lost jobs due to the pandemic.”
A requirement was the units had to be professional-grade. Rogers said that is due to many pantry users having transportation issues and this helps keep the food fresher for longer.
“We’re doing what we can to help our neighbors,” Rogers said.
Creating Healthy Communities is managing the units, which cost which cost $2,100 each, and ensuring at least half of the food in the refrigerators are fruits and vegetables. The need for such foods is essential as both CHF and CHC promote healthy eating as a key to a better lifestyle.
The new professional-grade appliance couldn’t have come at a better time for Good Samaritan Outreach Center because its refrigeration unit had become undependable. Since reopening in August following a shutdown during the pandemic, the organization sees about 100 individuals and 30 families on Saturday mornings it’s open.
The center also offers clothes, personal hygiene items and other essentials. Numerous volunteers help serve those receiving the aid. Its volunteers were pleasantly surprised to find out about the new unit.
“It’s a good feeling being here to help the community; it’s what God wants us to do,” said Dan Smith of New Beginnings Christian Church, which runs the outreach center.
