Everyone is talking about how we just want things to “get back to normal”.
We long for a time when masks are no longer needed, and we can hug our loved ones without fear. A time when we can gather with the whole family and once again worship together in joyful community. We want to shed the weight of our Covid fears. You know, “normal”.
Many in our community, however, don’t want to go back to “normal”. It isn’t a good place to be.
Normal, for some, means struggling to put food on the table. Normal means eating what’s available rather than what’s enjoyed, or what’s nutritious. Normal, for people with limited incomes, means having fewer choices in every area of life. Normal is a place of vulnerability and struggle and oftentimes, it leaves one feeling overlooked and disrespected.
As we prepare to reopen our building after 18+ months of outdoor-only services, Isaiah 58 Ministries doesn’t want to go back to “normal”.
We want to create a new normal that’s a better place to be!
We envision a pantry that both efficiently meets the needs of our community and is a welcoming and inviting space for everyone who walks through our doors.
We are very excited to share that when we open, we will be a FULL-CHOICE pantry, where guests are invited to “shop” for the specific items they want and need.
Does their family prefer chicken and rice soup over chicken noodle? No problem.
Do they need low-sodium or low sugar products for health reasons? No problem.
And their available food choices will include: frozen meat, fresh produce, deli, and bakery items EVERY DAY!
They will have the power to choose. And with that power comes a sense of dignity.
We invite you to partner with us as we build a
“New and Improved Normal” for the guests we serve.
Part of our vision requires the rearranging and renovating of our space, including new floors, improved lighting and flexible shelving. As well as additional volunteers to become personal assistants to help our guests shop.
Join us in building a new and improved normal!