Transforming Lives: The Thayer Food Pantry's Relocation Paves the Way for Expanded Community Support

In the heart of Oregon County, a small but mighty food pantry has been making a significant impact on the lives of local families for over two decades. The Thayer Food Pantry, a beacon of hope in the community, is about to embark on a new chapter as it prepares to move to a larger, more suitable facility, thanks to the generosity and support of the City of Thayer.

Empowering the Community: The Thayer Food Pantry's Unwavering Commitment

Outgrowing the Existing Facility

What began as a modest operation two decades ago has blossomed into a vital resource for nearly 180 families in the area. The Thayer Food Pantry's current location on Chestnut Street has served the community well since 2004, but the growing demand for its services has outpaced the size of the building. "It's a very small building. The lot is very small for our traffic," explains Terri Wrenfrow, the Food Pantry Administrator.

Facing Challenges and Seeking Solutions

The challenges facing the Thayer Food Pantry extended beyond the physical limitations of the current facility. The owner of the building informed the pantry that the rent price was set to increase, putting the organization in a difficult position. "We knew we couldn't afford a higher rent, and we were going to have to find another option," Wrenfrow said.

A Lifeline from the City of Thayer

Just when the Thayer Food Pantry was facing an uncertain future, the City of Thayer stepped in to offer a remarkable solution. "The city has leased the land to us for 50 years for a dollar a year. You can't ask for anything better than that," Wrenfrow expressed with gratitude.

Unlocking New Opportunities

The relocation to a new facility not only solves the immediate challenges but also opens up new possibilities for the Thayer Food Pantry. "We have missed out on a few grants because of us not owning our own building and site. This opened up to us and it's been such a blessing," Wrenfrow shared, highlighting the positive impact of the move.

Building a Brighter Future

The new food pantry will be located beside the town's recycling center, providing a convenient and accessible location for the community. "We're not going to go into debt. We're just going with the money we have. It's a 30 by 50 metal building. It'll be very minimalist," Wrenfrow added, emphasizing the organization's fiscally responsible approach to the relocation.

Addressing the Needs of a Struggling Community

The City of Thayer's decision to support the Thayer Food Pantry's relocation is a testament to the vital role the organization plays in the community. "Sometimes the line can be over half a mile long waiting for food. Oregon County is kind of an impoverished place, so people really rely on the food pantry," stated Brent Collins, the City Clerk.

A Beacon of Hope on the Horizon

As the Thayer Food Pantry prepares to move into its new, larger facility, the community eagerly awaits the positive impact it will have. "We're just going with the money we have. It's a 30 by 50 metal building. It'll be very minimalist," Wrenfrow shared, emphasizing the organization's commitment to responsible growth and continued service to those in need.