The Italy Ministerial Alliance (IMA) food pantry is open every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Italy First United Methodist Church at 124 Harpold. Serving over 40 families this year, the food pantry is gearing up for the holiday season and needs your help.

According to the president of the Italy Ministerial Alliance, Rev. Beverly Hamilton, the food pantry is fulfilling its purpose and many churches are participating. “We served 10 families today: seven from Italy, three from Milford. Some special good news: the food pantry for the past three weeks (and moving into the future) is completely lay operated by volunteers from FUMC, Presbyterian, Union Missionary, Church in the Wildwood on a regular basis with occasional help from Central Baptist. This is an exciting representation of the priesthood of all believers — that we all are ministers!”

Hamilton suggests that if any congregation would like to help with the food pantry on a rotating basis, let her know. The church number is 972-483-6335. “It would be great to have a backup team when our primary team members are unavailable,” she said.

If you would like to donate food or money, please contact Beverly, “We continue to need donations, especially canned meats. We also continue to move forward in our membership with the North Texas Food Bank, which we expect to begin soon.” Rev. Hamilton initiated the process to become a member of the NTFB this past summer, with the promise of purchasing food at a vast price difference.

The greatest needs for the pantry, out of completely:

• Chicken noodle soup
• Canned chicken
• Chili
• Ham/SPAM
• Salmon
• Stew
• Tuna
• Beef ravioli
• Peanut butter
• Spaghetti and meatballs
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Spinach
• Sweet potatoes
• Fruit cocktail
• Peaches
• Pears
• Pineapple
• Rice
• Instant potatoes
• Jello
• Jelly
• Mac’n cheese
• Macaroni
• Canned milk