Lima City Council honors Mary Stiefelton for years of service to community food pantry

The Lima City Council on a unanimous vote adopted a resolution recognizing Mary Stiefelton for her leadership and volunteer service at a church-based food pantry.

The resolution, adopted on first reading as Resolution 4‑25, notes Stiefelton retired from Lima City Schools in June 2013 and then devoted many hours coordinating volunteers and administrative functions at the pantry. The text says she served as board president, helped secure 501(c)(3) nonprofit status for the group, reorganized food distribution during the pandemic and will move to a shift‑volunteer role after 12 years of active leadership.

Councilors praised Stiefelton during the meeting. “Thank you. The smiles you had on your face…we really appreciate you taking that time out with the people who’s in need,” Councilor Glenn said. Councilor Thompson told Stiefelton the pantry offered a comfortable, inviting place for people seeking help and thanked her for creating volunteer opportunities for community members and families.

Councilor Jordan said the pantry is a coalition of churches and credited Stiefelton with expanding its reach, saying the pantry now averages about 1,200 clients a month. “Mary has worked, essentially, a full time job much of this time, totally unpaid,” Jordan said, adding that the pantry operates with little overhead so donations go directly to feeding people.

Stiefelton, accepting the honor, said she served because “it was near and dear to my heart” and added, “I did not do this task for any accolades.” The council called Stiefelton forward after the resolution passed 7‑0 on first reading.

The resolution text and roll call indicate the council’s action was ceremonial recognition rather than a funding decision. The resolution directs appreciation from the council and states the council “honors her legacy of compassion, leadership, and tireless commitment to the well‑being of our residents.”