LIFE Food Pantry and NEST continue feeding efforts

Area organizations are thankful for the support of the community maintaining efforts to care for kids and families most at risk while school buildings remain closed through the end of April

By Chuck Gibson

LOVELAND, OH (March 30, 2020) – In Loveland, school kids and families have come to trust both Loveland InterFaith Effort (LIFE) Food Pantry and NEST CLC to care for them in times of need.

When Governor Mike DeWine ordered the closure of all Ohio schools, these two remarkable organizations switched into high gear to respond to the needs of those most at risk while Loveland buildings are closed. In partnership with the Loveland City School District, and with the help of the community and generous donors, both organizations ramped up their services during the COVID-19 response.

Here is a look at the latest information from them: Beginning with an update from NEST:

Starting Sunday, March 29, NEST has a new donation drop-off schedule as follows – At Loveland High School: Sundays 4-6 p.m. and Mon-Thur 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.

The NEST office located at 11905 Rich Road (3 driveways north of the High School driveway) will continue to accept donations anytime 24/7.

MOST NEEDED ITEMS CURRENTLY include: Bread, Jelly in squeeze bottles, Individual Mac & Cheese, Apples, Bananas, Cuties, Tuna & Chicken Pouches, Individual cheese-n-cracker packs and similar shelf-stable items. These work best for kids at home without requiring use of cooking or can openers.

In just the first two weeks of expanded service response, NEST has served 7,632 meals (3,735 in week one and increasing to 3,900 meals served in week two.) They expect to see those numbers increase as those in need continue to be identified during this fluid situation. NEST is thankful for the support of the community and donors like Skips Bagels, Whole Foods, & Cracker Barrel and so many others. More volunteers are needed. Please click here to find available volunteer opportunities for NEST.

Here is the latest from LIFE Food Pantry:

Adjusted food pantry hours during COVID-19 response:

Thursdays 3:00pm–6:30pm

Saturdays 9:00am–12:30pm

The LIFE Food Pantry will continue to provide food assistance during the Loveland Schools shut down. In an effort to control the transmission of the virus, clients will be served with a “drive up system” during our modified pantry hours listed above. LIFE Food Pantry Clients are asked to please pull around to the rear door where pre-packaged bags with staples, a child-specific bag to help with unexpected school closing, and dairy, produce and meats will be provided.  If you walk to the pantry, please call ahead at (513) 583-8222 so they will have your order ready when you arrive.

PLEASE CALL (513) 583-8222 or email lifefoodpantry@yahoo.com with questions or if you know of anyone needing assistance.

 The situation is changing rapidly and LIFE Food Pantry will be adjusting their response accordingly. For now, please visit the LIFE Food Pantry COVID-19 Response Page for ways to get involved at this critical time.