The Emergency Food Box Board of Directors held its third quarterly meeting on July 21 at its new location, 107 N. First St.
Chairman Gary Fulton informed the board that the sale of the former Food Box building on Third Street was finalized on July 18. It was the consensus of the board to donate the entertainment stage in front of the current building to the county conservation for $1 . It was decided to install a permanent sign on the outside west wall that read the emergency box phone 641-753-2801. Since the days and hours that the EFB is open can change, a second sign is also purchased, which can be easily changed.
Several other needs were brought before the Board. A shed to store a lawnmower, because gas-powered equipment cannot be housed with food; a shelter to protect customers from the weather while being served and a doorbell that can be heard in all parts of the building. Even the roof leaks. The council unanimously decided to repair the roof instead of replacing it.
About 20 volunteers took part in the May cleaning day under the leadership of Meg Sponseller and Eldon Schneider.
Operating Committee Chair Cindy Staron reported that usage increased this quarter. It was the consensus of the board to decide at the next board meeting whether the amount and variety of food needs to be changed. There is less food available from the Des Moines Food Bank so more food can be purchased locally. Local prices have risen dramatically, so we need to find a way to stretch donations further. The food box will continue to serve those in need to the best of its ability.
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