WAYNESVILLE — What started with humble beginnings in downtown Waynesville in the Village Family Restaurant in 1983 by owners John and Anita Lamm has grown to meet the need in this community and in 2007, had to be moved to the basement of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church.

This community food pantry today is still funded entirely by donations and the support of the local community, according to Waynesville resident and pantry volunteer, Gretchen Hay. “We supply local people with non-perishable food items and vouchers they can use at the Hometown Marketplace here in town,” she said. “Folks just have to come in with proof of residency and tell us they need help.”

Hay is one of six volunteers working at the pantry, trying to keep the shelves stocked in this time of economic downturn. She has done so for about a year and a half and has watched the shelves fill and empty.

“I think we see more families in need during the summer because the kids are out of school and don’t get their school food,” Hay said. “And there are not as many school-based fundraisers going on.”

Because the need is so great, the Waynesville Merchants Group chose the theme “Pack the Pantry” for the annual 4th of July parade, scheduled for Saturday, June 30, this year in downtown Waynesville. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the parade.

“We chose the theme because our pantry is almost empty,” said Pam Bowman, parade co-chair this year. “A lot of our local folks have lost jobs and are really on hard times right now.”

That includes folks like Cassy Kauffman and Bridgette Coffman, both of Waynesville, who said they would go without food were it not for the pantry. “My cupboards were almost bare,” Coffman said. “I’m so grateful for this place.”

Hay said she has heard many inspiring stories, too. And even some about recipients who have returned to “give back” to the pantry after they have gotten back on their feet.

“There was one little boy who was just so thrilled to have a Popsicle,” she said. “They are all so thankful in their own way.”

Donations to the Waynesville Food Pantry can be made at the Village Family Restaurant, Lebanon Citizens Bank or mailed to PO Box 653, Waynesville, OH 45068.