Decorah Community Food Pantry now available online

The Decorah Community Food Pantry's new online ordering option allows for a more efficient program for clients.

"This system of pre-bagging allowed us to keep the Pantry open and serve those who needed food (after the pandemic began). However, many clients received food items that they couldn't use for various reasons so we're initiating an online system for client choice," stated Director Carol Hemesath.

This new convenient service is for any client able to access the internet, but there are are still other ways to go about getting specific food items. Hemesath said, "For those who aren't able to use the internet, we also give specific times to call in and give their order." If clients are unable to order online or call in, they can also just arrive at the door as in the past, and they will receive a pre-selected bag.

The inventory is online in both English and Spanish and can be accessed with an ID code. Clients will receive their codes as they visit or by calling 800-503-2330. Clients may call in their orders using this same number on Monday through Friday from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Spanish-speaking clients can order on Sundays from 7:00 pm.m to 9:00 pm.  All clients ordering either directly online or with a phone call will receive a specific time to pick up their orders with no waiting.

"It will take a while for all of us to adjust to this new system, but our hope is that it will both make for a better shopping experience for our clients and a manageable process for our volunteers," said Board Vice-President Georgie Klevar.