Making a Difference in Rural Montgomery County

Every other Wednesday, KPC Buddhist Relief makes deliveries to our partners in Poolesville. This visit, our first stop was to the Poolesville Little Free Pantry (PLFP), where we delivered 760 pounds of produce, dairy, and pantry items. Sarah Defnet, Manager of the PLFP, shared that despite shopping for food for the pantry just the day before, the shelves were already pretty bare. It was a relief to know that it was Buddhist Relief's delivery day, and that the shelves would soon be refilled. She said, “You guys came out in force, and it worked out great." 

Our next stop was to WUMCO Help, where we delivered 339 lbs in fruit and cheese for their summer program, as well as produce and eggs for their regular recipients. Assistant Executive Director Patricia Brown was visibly moved by all the produce. “WUMCO’s never been able to give people so much fresh food and quality food. Usually it’s just cans and boxes. Thank you!” 

WUMCO and the PLFP work together to make sure area residents are fed. PLFP always encourages users of the pantry to take advantage of WUMCO's additional services. With the nearest grocery store over 7 miles away and limited public transportation, these services are a lifeline for some. Together we are making a difference in the lives of many in this rural community.

WUMCO's Executive Director Katie Longbrake later shared with us that word of the fresh produce was spreading among the employees of the local fast food restaurant: "One young man said that he had not had fresh food at his house in years. He was so excited for fresh fruit. I had to hold back tears."

Help us help them.