Ruby’s Pantry of Austin in need of volunteers for February 18th distribution day

Ruby’s Pantry of Austin is in need of more volunteers for it’s Thursday February 18th pantry.  Bob Rosel, Media Coordinator with Ruby’s Pantry of Austin stated in a news release that the number of volunteers has decreased over the winter and Ruby’s organizers are putting out the  request for anyone who wants to help to come out to the Mower County Fairgrounds on  Thursday February 18th.  

The truck filled with donated food to be distributed arrives around 2:00 PM and the work of  setting up distribution stations starts at 2:30. Volunteers can arrive anytime after 2:30. Once the  set-up is completed, the actual distribution begins usually no later than 4:00 and goes very  quickly until about 5:30 or until the food runs out.  Rosel stated that it is a drive-by event with volunteers placing  donated items in each vehicle as they slowly go by. Two distribution lines are used to speed up the process. The pop-up pantries are outside for safety and masks are required. Volunteers  have access to a building to warm up and with bathroom facilities.  

Last month, Rosel stated that Ruby’s had half the number of volunteers from past pantries. While it is possible to  conduct the distribution with such a low number, he went on to state that it is easier for everyone with more volunteers.  Please consider volunteering individually or with a group. You can get more information by  calling Grace Lutheran Church at 433-3445.  Keep up with Ruby’s Pantry Austin on their  Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/Rubys-Pantry-Austin.