In the heart of Corry, a remarkable story unfolds. The Corry Area Food Pantry, a vital institution serving the local community, has achieved a significant milestone - it now officially owns its warehouse building on West Main Street. This ownership marks a new chapter in the pantry's history and a testament to the unwavering support of the Hammond family and the community.

"The Corry Area Food Pantry: A Beacon of Hope and Ownership"

Early Beginnings and Community Support

Back in 1984, in the aftermath of the closure of Corry Jamestown Corp., the Corry Area Food Pantry came into existence to assist local residents facing food insecurity. Richard “Dick” Farver, an officer of the pantry, shared a brief history where Becky Lesik, Mame Smith Sprandel, and Danielle Smith took the initiative to raise funds and acquire grants. At that time, the pantry had to rely on various facilities, moving around town as space allowed. It started in the basement of Corry Rubber Corp. and then moved to Dodd Farms Dairy, which had just closed. Next, it occupied the former Market Basket building, now Relevant Church. Other hosts included the Bell’s Market storefront and Elmview Dairy.This early phase showed the pantry's adaptability and the community's willingness to come together to address a crucial need. The efforts of these pioneers laid the foundation for the pantry's growth and impact.

The Hammond Family's Generosity

For many years, the Hammond family, the owners of the building on West Main Street, graciously allowed the food pantry to utilize it for their services and activities. Their generosity knew no bounds. On a snowy Black Friday, a significant moment occurred when the Hammond family officially signed over the deed to the organization, making the food pantry its rightful owner. This act of kindness not only provided a stable home for the pantry but also symbolized the community's unity and support.In 2005, the Hammond family went a step further by building the current facility and giving the food pantry the use of the building and property rent-free for 20 years. They also took on the responsibilities of paying taxes, insurance, and maintenance. This generous gift has had a profound impact on the pantry's operations and ability to serve the community.

The Current Board of Directors and Their Gratitude

The current board of directors of the food pantry, including Farver, Sue Forrest, Laurie Ploss, Dee Smith, Mike Gluvna, Jeanne Powles, Joan Rugar, and Phil Stec, has been working tirelessly to continue the pantry's mission. They crafted a heartfelt letter to the Hammond family expressing their deep gratitude for this generous gift.“As you can see, the amazing generosity of you and your family has truly assisted our mission,” the letter states. “If we had been paying even part of the expenses associated with the building and property for the past 20 years, there would have been a significant negative impact on our efforts. Words cannot express our appreciation.”This letter is a testament to the bond between the pantry and the Hammond family and the community's recognition of their selfless contribution.The Corry Area Food Pantry continues to be a vital resource for the local community, providing food and support to those in need. With its newfound ownership and the continued support of the Hammond family and the community, it is well-positioned to make an even greater impact in the years to come.