The Perry Food Pantry served its final customers in its old location Thursday afternoon and then quickly moved its operation — lock, stock and barrel — to its new home at 1300 28th St.
An inspection report that indicated dangerous mold contamination in the old Masonic Home site gave urgency to the pantry’s relocation, which was accomplished in a few hours thanks to the labor of a full crew of volunteers.
The new pantry site was remodeled from one of the former independent-living apartments that face Willis Avenue in order to serve as the new site for the local food outlet.
The pantry originally moved into the former Masonic home at 3000 Willis Ave. in December 2017 and now engages some 50 volunteers under the leadership of Site Director Louis Hoger and Volunteer Coordinator Lois Hoger. Its new location is 1300 28th St., just a few steps east of the former spot.
The mission of the Perry Food Pantry, also known as Perry Emergency Food Council, “is to provide food assistance for persons in immediate need in and around the community of Perry,” according to the pantry’s Facebook page.
The current board of directors includes President Tim Farmer, Treasurer Carol Johnson, Secretary Sarah Cerwinske and directors Norm Adamson, Jeffrey Fuentes, Brenda Golay, Steve Golay, Rosa Gonzalez, Margaret Harden, Gus Henrici and Myrna Smith.
Volunteers and cash donations are always welcome. Supporters may donate online or send checks to the Perry Food Pantry, P.O. Box 156, Perry, IA 50220. For more information or to volunteer, call 515-570-2975 or email perryiafoodpantry@gmail.com.
