Food pantry to close temporarily

The Crook County Council of County Services has closed the Moorcroft Food Pantry next to Sharon’s Home Health on North Little Horn Avenue until September 14.

Council supervisor Jill Keller says the county-run pantry has seen a significant drop in the number of people coming in during the days open from between nine and 12 households biweekly to about three, of which two regularly have the needed supplies delivered.

“Our board has made the decision to put it on hold for a little bit and see if things change after the summer,” Keller says.

Crook County Council hosts pantries in Sundance, Hulett and Moorcroft. Keller says the intent is to redistribute the funds at this time to where the need is greater with the hope of reopening the Moorcroft site after the stimulus and unemployment money has ended and people again need help.

At this time, Keller is not sure that the pantry will continue in Moorcroft, but, she said, “Hopefully, we can keep it open.”

A volunteer will continue delivering groceries to the households who do not partake of the Moorcroft Interfaith Community pantry, which will still continue to offer assistance to residents.

However, says Keller, the county operation survives on donations and the funding for the storefront can be better used in other areas at this time.