Healthy Pantry now open in Milford

August 6, 2019

Wanda, a disabled senior, was happy to learn about the Food Bank’s Healthy Pantry program now available at the Food Bank of Delaware’s Milford site. This Lincoln resident, who is disabled, is dealing with a cut in her SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) benefits.

The Healthy Pantry program provides emergency food – not a regular food source – to people who provide identification and meet income guidelines. Those receiving a food box, like Wanda, must complete an application form.

“I’m disabled. I’m unable to work,” said Wanda, who explained that she previously had a cleaning business. The chemicals in her workplace damaged her lungs; she relies on an external oxygen source.

“I never smoked. My doctor said it was bleach and stuff. I’ve had a lung reduction,” she explained.

The former Virginia resident said she moved to Delaware to be with her mother.

Wanda said the food she received Monday, including some fresh produce, is appreciated. “I love to cook, and I try to be healthy. I try to watch my salt, and I can do that when I cook. I want to see my granddaughters grow up and go to college,” she explained.

Typically people leave with both perishable and non-perishable food items, including shelf-stable food, fresh produce and bread, and frozen meat. “This helps me a whole lot. I’m looking forward to the chicken,” she said.

Pantry hours are 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays; from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays; and from 9 a.m. until noon on the second Saturday of each month.

Visit www.fbd.org for more information.