Macomb Project H.O.P.E. Inc. NFP (Help Our People Eat) is pleased to offer  a different kind of food pantry called “The Harvest”. The organization plans to introduce a unique twist to the food pantry concept. Along with the traditional canned and boxed goods, the organization wishes to provide fresh fruits and vegetables in season with the help of area farmers and gardeners.

Families and individuals who want to utilize this resource will be asked to register into “The Harvest” Partner Program.  At that time, they will be given a list of places in the community where they can volunteer for a minimum of two hours in order to receive their first month’s groceries. This program is designed to promote a sense of self-worth as well as service to the community. It is hoped that this concept will foster self-reliance but also a sense of fellowship and belonging as members work together to better the community.

If any organization wishes to be listed as a volunteer opportunity for pantry users, please contact the Project H.O.P.E. office at 309-255-5920. “The Harvest” will be located within H.O.P.E. Community Thrift Store which is located at 119 W. Carroll Street in Macomb, Illinois. Hours for the new pantry are the same as the thrift store.

Donations of canned and boxed goods may be dropped off anytime at the thrift store during business hours. Current store hours are: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday  10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Thursdays 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Groups or organizations interested in conducting food drives or fund-raising events throughout the year to support the pantry are welcomed and greatly appreciated. Monetary donations may be made out to Macomb Project H.O.P.E. Inc. NFP. Please put “The Harvest” in the memo line. Thank you for supporting this much needed ministry!

*PLEASE NOTE: Everyone who comes to the food pantry seeking assistance will receive a free bag of groceries whether or not they wish to sign up for The Harvest Partner Program. They are encouraged to sign up for the pantry but that is a decision they make. The advantages in joining the pantry program is that it offers a wider range of products not always found at other food pantries such as flour, sugar, cleaning supplies, paper products, and body care items. The pantry strives to operate like a “personal shopper” for members.