The third Saturday of each month serves as our large, monthly distribution day for non-perishable food items. The food provided to the 150+ McDowell County, WV families in attendance is used as supplement to their existing benefits. These foods pair well with fresh items purchased by the patrons with their limited personal income and SNAP benefits.
Ladies Night Out
Throughout the summer months, Five Loaves and Two Fishes is bustling with out of state mission teams that come in to volunteer their time to the citizens of McDowell County. During these trips, the women leadership within the groups enjoy helping host ‘Ladies Night Out’ for the women in the McDowell County community. Women of all ages gather at the food bank to enjoy an evening of devotion, fellowship, and a meal. Each lady in attendance leaves with a bag of non-perishable food items and household items.
School Break Bag Program
A large majority of children in the McDowell County school system are living in a home with someone other than a parent (grandparent, distant family member, foster care, etc.). Often times, the only meals these students have access to are those provided during the school day. Five Loaves and Two Fishes Food Bank implemented a school break bag program to provide child friendly foods and snacks to McDowell County students during school breaks and outages. Each student that visits the food bank receives a large bag filled with snacks and foods that can be easily prepared without adult supervision. When available, shelf stable milk and juice is provided as well.
Baby Pantry
McDowell County offers limited access to shopping for necessities for adults and children. As a resource for expecting mothers, Five Loaves and Two Fishes Food Bank houses a pantry specifically focused on needs for infants and small children. Items include: clothing, blankets, bottles, diapers, wipes, etc.
Emergency Pantry
When tragic events such as fire, flood, and acts of domestic violence occur, individuals are left with minimal possessions while they get back on their feet. The Emergency Pantry serves as a resource closet for a variety of needs for short term reprieve. Individuals can access food, clothing, household items, hygiene items, etc.