Helping Hands Food Pantry in Knoxville is transitioning to a client choice model and are currently looking for volunteers.

The local food pantry and thrift store provides a variety of food and items to those in need throughout the community. The pantry used to just provide clients with a bag full of food in which they didn’t have a choice in what was included, but are now in the process of allowing their clients to choose the food they will use. The pantry hopes this new model will help prevent food waste, provide better nutrition to the recipients, a better sense of dignity, and a better use of funds that Helping Hands receives. Pat Finan with Helping Hands says this transition is not possible without the help of dedicated volunteers.

“The one thing we realize is we can’t do this without the help of the community. What we’re trying to emphasize is the need for volunteers who can just come in and stock the shelves or better yet help the people with their food choices. As we move forward we will welcome more donations of money and food. The money will help us buy equipment that will help us operate more efficiently and safely for things like cleaner shelves and refrigeration units and things like that.”

Those interested in volunteering at Helping Hands can contact Pat by calling 641-230-1036. Hear more about the transition process on an upcoming Let’s Talk Knoxville.