Bonnie Cranmer
Contributing writer
For those who aren’t aware, the twice monthly Feeding Southwest Virginia truck has loads of healthy food for Craig County residents. On the second and third Wednesdays each month, the staff and volunteers with Feeding Southwest Virginia visit New Castle to provide fresh fruits and vegetables plus many kitchen staples. The food available changes each month to provide what’s fresh and in season, along with regular ingredients like spices, flour and eggs.
Making a difference to the food insecurity in the region is the mission of Feeding Southwest Virginia. “In Craig County alone, just under 600 neighbors are not getting enough to eat,” stated Emma O’Neill of Feeding Southwest Virginia. People using the EBT program double their value with available produce. Anyone can shop for the wide variety of items offered from canned goods to cereals, with some changes each month.
“Fresh fruits and veggies are so expensive, making healthy eating a challenge. But by shopping at the mobile marketplace, I’ve been able to manage my diet better and have even lost 8 pounds! The convenience and support have been a game-changer for me,” said a shopper recently. Convenience and support are essential components of the program. The staff of Feeding Southwest Virginia are a caring and professional team.
The huge refrigerated truck arrives to the New Castle Christian Church on Rt 311 on the second and third Wednesdays each month. On the second Wednesday, hours are from 3-5 p.m. On the third Wednesdays, hours are from 4-6 p.m. The parking lot fills quickly with shoppers picking up essentials and fresh seasonal produce. People arrive by car, truck and even bicycles with baskets to pick up their monthly purchase.
Those in need of help should contact the Craig County Social Services office at 540-864-5117 for assistance. Emergency services are available and applications for additional help can provide food and other services. Hunger is a real problem with a solution in the Craig County community, officials said. The Craig County Department of Social Services provides citizens with access to adequate, affordable, high-quality human and social services, working with partners like Feeding Southwest Virginia.