From time to time, we come across something that really makes one pause.  This was the case with the annual report of our Seaside Food Pantry last week.  Most in the congregation are aware that Seaside sponsors a food pantry.  Many are aware that the Food Pantry is available each Tuesday from 10:00 until noon.  Many support the food pantry with their financial gifts.  Some give freely of their time and energy to make this ministry function smoothly.  None of this comes as a surprise.

What give one pause, however, is twofold.  First, we notice the enormous impact that the food pantry has on the community.  In 2009, the Seaside Food Pantry served almost 10,000 individuals, half of whom were children who lived in households where there was not enough to eat.  But even more dramatic is the fact that the number of persons served in 2009 had increased by more than 2/3 over the number served in 2008 and was 3 times the number served in 2004!

Your support of the Seaside Food Pantry provides an incalculable benefit.  Be sure to thank one of your food pantry volunteers this week for their tireless labor.  And don't forget to support the Seaside Food Pantry in 2010.