Dear editor,

I am pleased to let the community know that during March and April the Batesville Area Ministerial Association Food Pantry collected many food items and monetary donations to qualify for a part of the $1 million donated by the Feinstein Foundation of Rhode Island.

Although the check we receved from the foundation was only $364, we collected an amazing 19,000 items and much needed cash. Over 1,700 hunger agencies participated in the challenge this year, which speaks volumes regarding hunger in our country.

Thank you for supporting this effort for the last five years!

The pantry is no longer open the last Saturday of the month due to lack of interest. We are open every Wednesday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment.

Kathy Weigel,

volunteer coordinator