𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐬 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 𝐢𝐧 𝐅𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐇𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫

The Elmore County Economic Development Authority (ECEDA) is proud to spotlight Welcome Food Pantry as one of the county’s local heroes, serving the community with compassion and purpose by addressing food insecurity head-on.

With a mission to show God’s love and compassion by assisting those struggling with hunger, Welcome Food Pantry has become a trusted source of hope for countless families across the region. Through regular food distributions, volunteer efforts, and partnerships with local churches, businesses, and civic groups, the pantry ensures that no one in the community goes hungry.

“No one should have to wonder where their next meal is coming from,” said Lisa Van Wagner, Executive Director of ECEDA. “Welcome Food Pantry embodies the spirit of service in Elmore County, meeting a basic and vital need with dignity and care.”

Welcome’s impact stretches beyond handing out groceries. Volunteers often lend a listening ear or a word of encouragement to those in crisis. The organization’s holistic approach provides more than just food — it offers stability during times of hardship.

Welcome Food Pantry Recognized as Local Hero in Fight Against Hunger

The Elmore County Economic Development Authority (ECEDA) is proud to spotlight Welcome Food Pantry as one of the county’s local heroes, serving the community with compassion and purpose by addressing food insecurity head-on.

With a mission to show God’s love and compassion by assisting those struggling with hunger, Welcome Food Pantry has become a trusted source of hope for countless families across the region. Through regular food distributions, volunteer efforts, and partnerships with local churches, businesses, and civic groups, the pantry ensures that no one in the community goes hungry.

“No one should have to wonder where their next meal is coming from,” said Lisa Van Wagner, Executive Director of ECEDA. “Welcome Food Pantry embodies the spirit of service in Elmore County, meeting a basic and vital need with dignity and care.”

Welcome’s impact stretches beyond handing out groceries. Volunteers often lend a listening ear or a word of encouragement to those in crisis. The organization’s holistic approach provides more than just food — it offers stability during times of hardship.

Executive Director of the Welcome Food Pantry, Michael Lambert states, “I have volunteered at the pantry for 3 years and I became the Director on September 1. We are sponsored by churches in Elmore and Autauga counties; a mandate of the church is to help those who need us. We operate 100% by volunteers and donations by local stores, churches, and individuals. We welcome all who choose to participate in our mission to eliminate food insecurity in West Elmore county and hopefully expand into other nearby communities as well.”

As food insecurity remains a growing challenge in rural communities, the pantry’s continued commitment stands as a shining example of how local action can make a lasting difference.

“Organizations like Welcome remind us what it means to be a true community,” said Van Wagner. “They are everyday heroes whose efforts ripple far beyond their doors.”

ECEDA proudly supports and recognizes the vital role the Welcome Food Pantry plays in building a stronger, more compassionate Elmore County.

To learn more or to get involved, visit www.welcomefoodpantry.org.

As food insecurity remains a growing challenge in rural communities, the pantry’s continued commitment stands as a shining example of how local action can make a lasting difference.

“Organizations like Welcome remind us what it means to be a true community,” said Van Wagner. “They are everyday heroes whose efforts ripple far beyond their doors.”

ECEDA proudly supports and recognizes the vital role the Welcome Food Pantry plays in building a stronger, more compassionate Elmore County.

To learn more or to get involved, visit www.welcomefoodpantry.org.