The Mexico Food Pantry will begin handing out food boxes to anyone in need as part of the USDA's Farmers to Families Food Box Program.
On Wednesday May 27, 2020, food pantry volunteers will distribute three food boxes each to the first 200 vehicles. The distribution will take place from 4-7 p.m. at the pantry (5863 Scenic Ave., Mexico). The food boxes will be provided in lieu of the bagged food items the pantry usually hands out. Each vehicle will receive a Fresh Fruit/Fresh Vegetable Box, a Dairy Products Box, and a Precooked Meat Box.
The food boxes are being distributed as part of the Coronavirus Farm Assistance Program. The goal of the federally funded program is to keep workers in the food industry employed and provide people in need with access to food. The program will purchase $461 million in fresh fruits and vegetables, $317 million in a variety of dairy products, $258 million in meat products and $175 million in a combination box of fresh produce, dairy or meat products. Suppliers will package these products into family-sized boxes, then transport them to food banks, community and faith-based organizations, and other non-profits.
This support is greatly needed. At the Mexico Food Pantry, the need has soared in the past few months.