Local residents answered the call last month when Belpre Area Veterans hosted a spring food drive to benefit the Belpre Area Ministries.

It wasn’t just those who brought in enough food to fill several totes, it was also those who brought in cash donations who made a big difference for the food pantry.

“This is great this time of year,” said Judy Frum, co-vice president of the Belpre Area Ministries board. “We appreciate these guys.”

Shelves do not stay full for long at the Belpre Area Ministries pantry, which serves an average of 125 families per month. (A year ago, that figure was 105). The pantry is always in need of food, toiletries, cleaning supplies and, yes, cash; though it is good to note the community showed up in a big way for the veterans’ drive.

“We greatly appreciate our community’s generosity and particularly in helping those in need,” group President Eric Clark said.

Belpre Area Veterans regularly hold food drives in October, to help the food pantry, which is supported by local churches. But this year they knew a little extra support was in order.

More and more families are vulnerable to food insecurity and other challenges. As one group steps up, we are grateful, yes. But it must inspire more to find ways to do the same.