Mobile food pantry Brown Bag Ministries reports sharp increase in demand; seeks volunteers and donations

Tom Soha, pro bono director of community outreach for Brown Bag Ministries, told the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners on Sept. 16 that his Lakewood-based nonprofit is seeing sharply rising demand for its mobile food distribution in Jefferson County and across the region.

Why it matters: Brown Bag Ministries said hunger is affecting motel residents, low-income housing, seniors, veterans and families with children, and that transportation barriers and food-bank hours limit access for many people in need.

What Brown Bag reported: Soha said Brown Bag has delivered more than 500,000 pounds of food in the most recent year and reached about 14,116 families and 43,248 individuals. He told commissioners the group has seen a roughly 375% increase in people served between 2023 and 2025 and that the organization distributes not only food but also hygiene items, household supplies and clothing.

Soha described Brown Bag as a mobile food bank that brings supplies directly into neighborhoods, including motel parking lots and senior housing. He said volunteers help clients “shop” the distribution line so they can select items they need rather than receiving a prepacked box. He asked for donations and volunteer help; Brown Bag operates six days a week and holds a weekly distribution at Mount Airy Christian Church, 1390 Benton Street, from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.

Discussion versus action: the presentation was informational; commissioners thanked Soha and did not take any direct funding actions at the hearing. Soha left contact information and pamphlets for staff and encouraged partnerships with existing pantries.