Living Rock Church

Food Pantry Ministry Policy and Guidelines

PURPOSE: To obediently serve the Lord by providing food for those in urgent need.

Supported Core Values:

Generous Living:  “….but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.” Prov. 14:21

Loving Relationships: “…let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” 1 John 3:18

Engaging Evangelism:  “…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matt. 5:16

GENERAL GUIDELINES

Recipients:  The food pantry is available for anyone in genuine need.  In addition to those within the Living Rock Church, this ministry is meant for anyone regardless of faith or affiliation.

Distribution:  Pre-assembled sacks are kept in the food pantry shelves.  These will be identified according to need (a single person/couple or a family).  The family sacks are made for a family of four.  Should a larger family need accommodated use your discretion to supplement the pre-made family sacks with additional items as needed.

Literature:  In addition to supplying food, it is important to include in any distribution some spiritual support.  Each distribution should, at a minimum, include a brochure from Living Rock Church along with the pastor’s business card with contact information.  If a Bible is needed, a supply is kept in the food pantry.

Food Rotation:  Any food received should be inspected for an expiration date.  New food should be placed “behind” the existing food to help support timely rotation of the items.

Recordkeeping:  Record the date and number of people assisted in the log located in the food pantry.  Names are not necessary – we just want to record how many are being helped.

Stock:  A list of basic food items is kept in the food pantry.  If an item is not listed that should be, please write the particular item on the list.  The idea is to have a combination of items that can make basic meals.

Freezer:  The freezer has a mechanism to lock the lid to prevent children from accidentally getting trapped in the unit.  The key is located next to the door going into the pantry.  Please ensure it is locked after each use and the key put back in place