Murray County Food Shelf reports 305 monthly users in 2024; pantry is volunteer-run and added refrigeration

Tim Lange presented the Murray County Food Shelf’s 2024 annual report at the May 27 board meeting, describing usage levels, volunteer staffing, and changes to storage and service delivery.

Lange said a typical month in 2024 saw 92 families, comprising 305 individuals, make at least one visit. The meeting record states that figure represents about 3.79% of the county population of 80,496 (2023 population); that percentage is inconsistent with the numbers provided. The correct calculation is approximately 0.38% of a population of 80,496 (305 ÷ 80,496 ≈ 0.00379, or 0.38%), not 3.79%. The minutes’ numerical counts (92 families, 305 individuals) are reported here; the percent in the minutes appears to be a misplaced decimal and is corrected for accuracy.

The pantry reported providing roughly 92 pounds of food per family visit (about 28 pounds per individual, as stated in the minutes). The pantry operates entirely with volunteers (nine board members plus 25 volunteers), and in 2024 it increased refrigerated and frozen storage using grant funds to expand offerings of fresh produce, meat and milk. Second Harvest Heartland remains the pantry’s major food source, and the minutes note government support for that source decreased in 2024, which affected food costs.

The pantry’s 2022 conversion to a “Super Shelf Shopping Service” (facility upgrades including shelving and refrigeration) was highlighted as improving the client experience. Board members received the report; no board action was recorded beyond receipt of the presentation.