Food pantry to test expanded hours

MANAWA – The Manawa Area Community Food Pantry will temporarily expand its hours this spring to gauge whether additional access is needed for local residents.
The pantry will open from 4 to 6 p.m. on the first Monday of the month for a trial period. The additional hours are scheduled for April 6 and May 4 and are intended for people who cannot attend during the pantry’s regular morning distribution time. Residents may drop off food donations or pick up food during that time.
The Manawa pantry is located at 114 Second St. and provides supplemental food to residents within the School District of Manawa who need temporary or ongoing assistance. Regular hours are Mondays from 9 a.m. to noon. Items distributed include canned goods, cereals, pasta, meat, bread, and other staples, along with some household items.
To receive food, residents must bring a photo ID and proof of residency showing a current mailing address, such as a rent receipt or utility bill.
The Manawa pantry is a nonprofit organization and relies on volunteers and community donations to operate. Last month, St. Paul Lutheran School donated 600 food items to the pantry, according to a social media post.
This month, the pantry is in need of donations of crackers, peanut butter, jelly, shampoo, deodorant and dish soap.