10/07/2026
Here's an update for Rotarian Jessica about our clubs recent participation volunteer effort at the Colonial Heights Food Pantry. Thank you Jessica for putting this together.
The Statistics:
Number of meals or Pounds of food
5,500 meals / 6,500 pounds of food
Number of recipients - families or individuals
153 families / 450 individuals
Number of Rotarians and Rotary volunteers
5 Rotarians, 56% of Colonial Heights Rotary Club
1 teen volunteer
Name, address and website of your local, community partner
Colonial Heights Food Pantry
530 Southpark Blvd, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
https://www.chfoodpantry.org/
Why you selected this partner
Have a pre-existing partnership and ongoing commitment on the second Thursday of the month for at least one Colonial Heights Rotarian to assist in the distribution of weekly groceries to pre-approved local residents.
Date(s) of Service(s)
Thursday, September 10, 2026
Time(s) - start and end time, total time in hours
5:30pm - 7:30pm
2 hours
Here's some stories and perspectives from some of our members....
"I knew there were pre-approved families waiting outside in their vehicles for a week's worth of groceries, but it was the quilt of experienced volunteers I met and observed that moved me most. Being new to the Colonial Heights Food Pantry, other volunteers shared with me why they are involved and what I should do. Like Drill Sergeant Derek, who "fluffed" grocery bags with me, was so proud to see "his soldiers" in action as civilians there and how he tries to make it as often as possible to support them when off base from neighboring Army Base, Fort Lee. On my way out, retired teacher Priscella, extended a warm hug and invitation to return. She took me under her wing to "properly train" me. She had fun showing me the ropes of the vegetable assembly area, insisting I try to open the reusable crates myself before finally showing me the "secret" latches used to fold the sides. She wanted me to do everything in that area myself at least once, and all the while pointing out who's who, how long they have volunteered there, and at least one thing she admired about each. So many of the volunteers show up week after week and are her friends, her community, and her life-line. I will definitely go back in October, and with my reluctant 16 year old who felt useful in the assembly line!" - Jessica Gonzalez
"Volunteering at Colonial Heights Food Pantry as an individual gives me the opportunity to know I helped make a difference to a family and community. When we come together as a club to do our monthly volunteer project it unites us as a club for service above self to our community and the families that need the support of the colonial heights food pantry." - Debbie Wall, Club Vice President
"I really enjoy volunteering at the food pantry and knowing that the time we spend there is helping people in our community who depend on this assistance to meet their basic needs. What impacts me most each time I volunteer is how gracious and appreciative many of the recipients are. Even though life has not always been kind to them and they may be facing difficult circumstances, they still greet us with a smile, express their gratitude, and often take the time to ask how we are doing. Seeing that kindness and positivity from people who are facing their own struggles is a powerful reminder to be grateful for what I have and to always look for opportunities to help others." - Nick Strafford, Club Treasurer
"Food pantries across our nation are important. What a shame it would be to throw away food that's near expiration instead of giving some to needy families. I'm honored to have the chance to support this worthwhile program." - Dave Merritt
"I enjoyed the station where I worked bagging vegetables. I was busy the whole time and worked with two regular and passionate volunteers. Since COVID, families stay in their vehicles and fill out a form with the size of their family that determines quantity and their preferences where choices are offered like oatmeal or grits. Coming inside to make choices and fill a shopping cart was clearly difficult for some and this system is much easier for everyone" -Tim Stafford, Club President (from our follow up conversation Tim 😁 - Jessica)
And of course, a picture or two...
Thank you all!
Jessica
Jessica Gonzalez, MSIS, MPA
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