ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — The Albemarle Food Pantry has reopened with new days and hours after renovations.
The food pantry, a program of the Food Bank of the Albemarle, had temporarily moved off-site to accommodate the renovations.
"We are excited to offer an entirely new experience for our neighbors coming to the food pantry," said Liz Reasoner, Executive Director. "We've given the Food Pantry a complete change that allows our guests to come in and 'shop' for the food they want for themselves and their family."
The newly renovated facility uses a model similar to a small grocery store.
Guests can self-select food that they want, and Food Pantry staff and volunteers will be on-site to help with any questions and provide assistance.
In addition to canned and other shelf-stable foods, people can also select from a variety of fresh produce, bread and protein as available.
"We have some new and exciting things coming," said Food Pantry Coordinator Darlene Reid. "Our goal is to continue to provide healthy food choices to meet the needs of our neighbors."
The Food Bank of the Albemarle has also added a "Neighborhood Hub" to the pantry which is available to select community partners.
The Hub will offer resources like medical screenings, mental health and legal services to those who may need it.
The Albemarle Food Pantry will hold a public dedication at the new facility on Monday, July 10 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., and the public is encouraged to attend.
The new hours for the Food Pantry are listed below.
- Monday - Closed
- Tuesday - 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
- Wednesday - 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- Thursday - 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Friday - 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
- Saturday - 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. (First and third of month)
