“If you say you need something, there are two or three offers right away,” she said.

Vander Plaats said Harkin “appreciates the emergency food providers” and knows it’s “always frustrating” to fund a food pantry.

“The commodities and food stamps program is funded by the Agriculture Committee and U.S. Department of Agriculture,” Vander Plaats said. “We want an idea of your need, your increases, how you operate, who is served, how often and the communities you help.”

Knouf said people come in with a voucher from the Salvation Army, Department of Human Services or the Southern Iowa Economic Development Association.

“People can come four times a year,” Knouf added.

She also said the local area isn’t a rich community and it’s “tough to get a part-time job.”

The Lord’s Cupboard also has food drives and receives both monetary and food donations.

Vernon Trucano, a First Methodist board member, said “it’s wonderful” that Hy-Vee Food Store, 1025 N. Quincy Ave., helps with day-old bread.

Vander Plaats asked if the cupboard is seeing more families or more seniors.

“Seniors. We’re seeing seniors who’ve never asked for help before,” Knouf said. “Emergencies can happen to anyone, even working people. And the price of everything is going up.”

Vander Plaats commiserated with the rising prices. He likes eggs and said a dozen costs $2.75 in the Quad Cities.

Knouf emphasized the cupboard needs more food, funding and volunteers.

After the meeting at First Methodist, Vander Plaats went to the Wapello County Courthouse to conduct a “listening post” session for Harkin.

Cindy Toopes can be reached at (641) 683-5376 or via e-mail at cindy@ottumwacourier.com.