Bonnie Cranmer
Contributing writer
Did you know online ordering is available from Feeding Southwest Virginia? The organization is finding more ways to get food into the hands of those who need it. Using the online form, pickups are at the Salem location by appointment. “Many residents of Craig County visit the Roanoke/Salem area on a regular basis. They are welcome to use our online ordering system any time!” shared Lisa Claytor, chief development officer.
If local shopping is more your style, the truck will pull into New Castle at the New Castle Christian Church on Wednesdays for the next two weeks. On Wednesday, May 14, check out the selection from 3-5 p.m. The online order form, available on the website (https://feedingswva.org/map-directory/) gives shoppers an idea of what is available on arrival at the truck. The pantry supplies, dairy and fresh produce are available to anyone at a reduced cost. They partner with Virginia Fresh Match to offer 50% off fresh produce and seedlings for the garden. “Seeds and plants that can grow to produce food are eligible under SNAP. We do not know what plants we will have until Tuesday morning (5/13),” stated Claytor. For the next visit, she continued they “have ordered apples, corn, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, pears, carrots, yellow squash, zucchini, celery, English cucumbers, Yukon potatoes, red potatoes, blood oranges, strawberries, broccoli, honeydew melons, and eggs. We will have shelf stable items, produce, dairy and whole frozen turkeys for sale,” Claytor continued.
On Wednesday, May 21, the truck will arrive with a partner, the Wellness Wagon. Shopping will be open from 4-6 p.m. Again, kitchen staples and fresh produce will be a available, along with plants and seedlings for home gardens. The Wellness Wagon, hosting the Wellness Rodeo, will be available each month with Feeding Southwest Virginia on the third Wednesday, weather permitting. “The Mobile Marketplace helps build stronger, healthier communities by making nutritious groceries more accessible for everyone,” Claytor reiterated. “There are no qualifications.” Sign up for updates and reminders by texting NEW CASTLE to 1-833-772-7844.
