Since its founding during the early days of the pandemic, the Hopewell Valley Mobile Food Pantry (HVMFP) has become a lifeline for hundreds of local families. Located at 425 S. Main Street in Pennington, the pantry distributes fresh produce and groceries weekly to neighbors facing hardship.
The need has only grown. What began with about 35 families in April 2020 now averages 200–220 families each week, according to HVMFP Director Joseph Lawver.
“We’ve grown from 35 to an average of 220 families each week. We expect that to continue to grow. We don’t want to see that happen, but we expect that to happen. And we’re having to spend more,” Lawver said.
This year alone, the pantry expects to spend about $200,000 on groceries and produce—$50,000 more than last year. Rising demand and reductions in federal assistance programs have left low-income families and seniors more vulnerable, while also straining the volunteer-run nonprofit.
Personal impact
Lawver recalls a young boy who visited the pantry with his mother after escaping a domestic violence situation.
“He was just so over the moon that he was able to pick up applesauce… what we take for granted was just the greatest treat for this boy,” Lawver said.
Those moments, he added, highlight both the importance of the pantry and the need to sustain it. About 60% of the families served are seniors or people with disabilities, while the rest are families with children.
Community support and fundraising
To meet growing expenses, HVMFP is launching a fundraising campaign. The effort begins with a “Friendraiser” on Thursday, September 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Needle Creek Farm Brewery (91 Titus Mill Road, Pennington). The event will feature live music, food, and local “celebrity” beertenders. Attendees are asked to bring cash, as all tips collected will benefit the pantry.
The campaign will also include outreach to local businesses, larger corporations, and individuals, as well as a direct mail drive and social media push leading up to Thanksgiving.
The pantry, started by former Hopewell Valley superintendent Tom Smith, was never intended as a temporary COVID fix.
“What we found out was that the ones that were struggling had been struggling long before COVID and were going to struggle long after COVID,” Lawver said.
Powered by volunteers
HVMFP operates entirely through community volunteers who collect, sort, package, and deliver groceries throughout the Valley.
“Whatever you’re interested in doing, whatever level of commitment that you can give us, we will find something that values your skills and your time and put you to work,” Lawver said.
For many volunteers, the work is rewarding.
“It makes me feel more connected to the community. I feel like I’m doing a good thing with my time and helping, making an impact on the people that need it,” said 15-year-old Ashley Potter, who served at the pantry with her Girl Scout troop.
“The food pantry helps so many people, it’s nice to help the food pantry. It’s really beneficial for everybody,” said 16-year-old Riley Harsell, who helped build shelves one afternoon after school.
The pantry accepts donations of non-perishable items in the outdoor bin and perishable items during staffed hours (Monday and Wednesday 9–10:30 a.m., Saturday 9:45–11:15 a.m.). It is currently seeking a volunteer to help run its social media. Details about donating, volunteering, and needed items are available on the pantry’s website.
