Sparrowhouse Ministries is Open for Food Donations at Life Center Church

Kathy Brown of Auxiliary Presents Donation to Jacobys

Sparrowhouse Ministries, operated by Joel and Veronica Jacoby, received a $500 cash contribution from members of the Prowers Medical Center Auxiliary this past Monday, May 5.  The presentation was made prior to the annual appreciation brunch the hospital hosts for Auxiliary members.  The Jacoby’s recently took over the food distribution operation from Mary and Martha food pantry at the Life Center Church on Savage Avenue.  They began their operation on March 20.

Betty Park, former director of the Mary and Martha food pantry, discontinued the operation after many years of service to the community.  “She’s been helping us get started with the logistics of the operation, but there will be some changes to the way we conduct the pantry,” said Joel Jacoby.  He said he and his wife plan to introduce more of a religious and spiritual aspect into their non-denominational operation.  Joel added, “We’ll be open on Thursdays, from 12pm to 1:30pm on the first and third Thursdays and again from 6pm to 7:30pm for those who can’t come by during the day.”  Veronica explained that the pantry and the cooler will be storing food items, and the second and fourth Thursdays will be for bread and produce and some meat items, when available.  She added that they are registered with Care and Share will allow them to receive food donations from Wal-Mart and Safeway and that they are operating under a 501C3 designation.  Veronica said donations are always welcomed by calling 719-468-6999.  She said, “What we’re seeing more of a need for is hygiene products such as toothpaste and toothbrushes.”  She explained that they’re just accepting food donations, cash or baby or infant wear as well at this point.

“We’re looking for a permanent base for operations,” Joel said.  He added that if a building becomes available that also contains living quarters.  “We will be able to take in families in need, but only for a very limited time span, once we’re further established,” he explained.  He said he’s hoping the local churches can aid in being a reference system for those who need donations.  “We’d like to be able to get the operation available from four to five days a week, and provide a location that will stay open where people can come to just sit and reflect on their spiritual needs.”

Donations are based on a trust system, but ID’s are requested to established proof of local residency.  About two to three days worth of food may be taken from the shelves and the cooler, but they expect people not to abuse the operation when they come by once a month.  Volunteers are welcome to help out.  Veronica Jacoby added that the couple would like to see young adults in their early 20s to come by.  “They are able to see how important it is to be able to give back to their community, and it really can make an impression on them,” she added.

By Russ Baldwin