Volunteers with Christ's Church at Lowhill Food Pantry have been lending a helping hand to families in need at the local level.

The food pantry, 4695 Lowhill Church Road, opened its doors in May 2009 and, since then, volunteers have been stocking shelves with donations to help area families.

In partnership with area churches, Second Harvest Food Bank, Allentown, and members of the community, the pantry is serving 80 families this summer.

Donations are always needed and volunteers are welcome to participate in stocking shelves.

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Barbara Kistler at lowhillfoodpantry@gmail.com.

Donations will be accepted from 9-11 a.m. on June 28 and by appointment by calling 610-298-2054 or Nancy Holbrook at 610-674-2440.

The pantry is currently seeking the following items for donation: bathroom cleaner, kitchen cleaner, toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, dish soap, laundry detergent, tea bags and coffee.

As school age youngsters are now home for the summer, "kid friendly" items such as juice, peanut butter and fruit cups are also welcomed.

Local farmers and garden enthusiasts with a surplus of fresh fruit and vegetables are encouraged to donate as long as the items are in good condition.

Monetary donations are used for purchasing milk, eggs and meat.

When the going gets tough, family pets are also affected. Canned and bagged dog and cat food will help struggling families dealing with the decision of whether they can afford to keep their furry friends.

Nearly New Needed

The Blessing Shop, located in the basement of the food pantry, offers an array of gently used clothing, toys and household items for those in need.

Anyone interested in donating "nearly new" items can call Bev Moyer at 610-298-3066.

Items currently needed for donation are bathing towels, new socks in all sizes and outdoor games for children home from school for the summer.

A Penny

for Your Thoughts

Christ's Church at Lowhill will host a penny party July 11. Doors open 6 p.m. Bidding starts at 7 p.m. There will be homemade food and desserts available.

Parish Picnic

Morgenland Church, 3120 Weidasville Road, Orfield, will host a parish picnic 4 p.m. to dusk on June 28. With cake walks, music and children's activities, the fun will last for hours. The picnic features door prizes, band prizes and musical performers.

The menu features turkey and ham barbecues, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, french fries, homemade desserts and ice cream.