TAMAQUA, Pa. – The sun is shining on G-Lady’s Food pantry in Tamaqua.
Even though the pantry has been empty for a while.
Sharon Stokes says for a year and a half, this honor pantry provided food and other supplies to those who needed them.
But she quickly learned…
“In order to help the needy, you have to accept the greedy,” said Stokes.
Stokes says despite cameras and signs urging the greedy to change their ways, the pantry kept getting wiped out.
Stokes learned that people were selling the toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, or trading them.
Each time the pantry was wiped out, the phone calls would start.
“‘I hate you because there’s no food in there,'” said Stokes. “It is unbelievable to me what some people will say.”
Stokes says the ministry took a step back to figure out what to do next.
The ministry kept making community food boxes, but the future of the food pantry was uncertain.
“We are still helping our community the best way we can,” said Stokes.
She’s now hoping the community will return the favor and provide enough donations to re-stock the pantry.
“I believe whole heartedly in Tamaqua,” said Stokes. “There are a lot of people with big hearts. I believe they will step up.”
To donate to the food pantry, visit G-Lady’s Ministries Facebook page.
Read More: Neighborhood food pantry in Tamaqua asking for help | Poconos and Coal Region