As the holidays approach, the Worthington Resource Pantry is preparing to spread more than just holiday cheer—it’s providing hope and essential support to those who need it most. In August alone, the Pantry served 11,451 neighbors from 2,853 families, marking a 10 percent increase from the previous year. The Pantry also welcomed 348 new families, thanks to the generous contributions of its supporters.
This incredible impact was made possible by the community’s unwavering support and commitment. Donors provided food, financial assistance and an astounding 1,631 hours of volunteer service.
Nestled in the heart of the community, the Pantry serves as a critical lifeline for residents across northern Franklin and southern Delaware counties. Beyond food, the Pantry offers crucial resources and assistance that help families navigate everyday challenges, like being able to diaper to their babies, and enjoy the holiday season with dignity and joy.
The holiday season is notably the Pantry's busiest time, with November seeing the most activity. A standout program is the Thanksgiving meal drive, where the community donates turkeys, canned goods and side dishes like stuffing and pumpkin pie. Thanks to neighbors helping neighbors, families receive everything they need for a festive meal.
“It’s amazing to see how the community comes together,” says Erin White Uvi, Communications Specialist for the Pantry. “All of the food is donated by local residents, and it truly brings the spirit of Thanksgiving to life. We ensure families don't just have enough food—[we make sure] they have a real holiday meal to enjoy with their loved ones.”
The Thanksgiving drive helps hundreds of families annually, and right after Thanksgiving, the pantry is busy helping families with food for the December holiday season.
How You Can Help
Food is a gift, but your donations can actually feed more people in need. That said, both perishable food items and financial gifts are always welcome, and of course, appreciated.
Online or via mail: The Resource Pantry can turn $1 into $4 worth of food for our neighbors. Donating online is one of the easiest and fastest ways to give. But mail works, too. Checks should be payable to the Worthington Resource Pantry and mailed to: Worthington Resource Pantry P.O. Box 27 Worthington, OH 43085
Workplace Giving: One of the easiest ways for a company to support the Pantry is by providing employees the option to give at work through payroll deductions, matching gifts and workplace giving campaigns. Contact your human resources, employee benefit, or community relations office to determine if your company matches employee charitable donations and your donation could be doubled! If you work for the state of Ohio, Columbus, Franklin County or The Ohio State University, you can give through the Community Shares of Mid Ohio campaign using code #19090.
Planned Giving: By including a charitable gift in your estate plan, you can support the Pantry while providing for your current financial needs. You can designate funds for general operations, endowment or specific programs. Common ways to give include gifts through wills or trusts, retirement plans and life insurance policies. The Resource Pantry recommends discussing planned giving with your financial or legal advisor.
Together, we can make a difference. Your support can transform lives this holiday season, bringing warmth and joy to families who need it most.