HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Hutchinson’s impressive new Food Bank is open four days a week with “streamline service” and much “improved accessibility” for the increasing number of individuals and families needing food assistance.
Food Bank of Reno County opened its’ doors last week and provides shopping Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:30 till 1….Thursdays noon till 7….and Fridays 10 AM till 5. Advanced scheduling is no longer necessary and shoppers will find grocery store style shelves to help speed their selection. The new location is at at 4th and Severance or 921 East 4th 921 East 4th. A companion office adjacent to the Food Bank is First Call For Help. Those with questions may call 620 665 4076 but the Food Bank is closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
While the re-location has provided a large increase in food storage, much larger parking and client convenience it has created “uncharted waters” for the Hutchinson Salvation Army according to Major Paul James. The two agencies had partnered together since the 1980’s using Salvation Army space. The bank was created by a Salvation Army board member who helped lead fund raising that moved the Army from Sherman Street to 700 North Walnut.
The Food Bank had been paying a small rental to use space and help with a shared receptionist until 4 years ago when the bank took over some of those responsibilities. Now that the Food Bank has moved Major James says while he supports the Food Bank move to provide better client service “a hole has been left in budget needs” It comes at a time when community needs have doubled since Covid and a $30,000 shortfall from last Decembers’ Christmas assistance fund raising, according to James.
The Salvation Army has been able to receive additional rent assistance through a new Friendship Meals agreement to continue using their building but James says the move still leaves his countywide assistance program in a “predicament”. However, the Food Bank and The Salvation Army are looking for ways to continue to partner together. The Salvation Army is currently helping the unhoused population with food bags through the support of the Food Bank along with over a showers every year.
The Salvation Army is looking for a compatible organization that would use 2,000 square feet in the Salvation Army building, formerly occupied by the Food Bank, with their rental helping continue Salvation Army services. Any organization, church, foundation or other group interested in more information may contact Major James at 620-474-1314.
