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FAQ
Where is the pantry located?
208 W. German Street, Shepherdstown. The pantry itself is located in the chapel, easily accessible from Church Street
What hours are you open?
Mondays 4PM – 6PM
Thursdays 3PM-5:30PM
Saturdays 10AM – 12PM
How does Shepherdstown Shares determine who gets food?
While we do not want to withhold food distribution from anyone, we focus on those unable to purchase adequate amounts of essential proteins, vegetables and starches as needed on a regular basis. For that reason, we are a supplementary source of those items, and should not be relied upon as the primary source of food products. Therefore, to qualify for weekly distribution, individuals are first asked to complete a standard form and if qualified can receive food immediately.
I am encountering a period of difficulty where I may not be able to buy the food I normally purchase. Can I get food at the pantry?
In extreme circumstances (loss of job, family emergency, temporary setback), we will forgo the application process and provide available food to those requesting it until the individual/family can once again provide for themselves. Since this is situational, Shepherdstown Shares reserves the right to determine when the distribution is no longer permitted. Since we have a limited amount of items on hand at any given time, this allows us to continue to provide to those individuals and families being served regularly.
I am unable to get to the pantry for a pickup. Is it possible to arrange a delivery?
Yes. However, since our drivers are volunteers and have a limited number of households to which they can deliver, you must show proof that you are physically unable to leave your house, have no transportation, or other valid reason that getting to the pantry is not possible. In some instances, and if this is the case, we may be able to coordinate assistance beyond our organization for more assistance.
What food is available?
Our selection varies from week to week. Generally, we have milk, eggs, bread, proteins (chicken, beef, fish), fresh fruits and vegetables in season and canned goods. We also try to stock a limited amount of cat and dog food and toiletries/personal hygiene products.
May I select what I want from what is available?
When arriving at the pantry on your pickup day, there will be a posting of what is available that day. You will be given a sheet to complete, and a volunteer will fill your request. We ask that you limit requesting everything that is available (ex: two different types of bread, beef and chicken, etc.) since we serve a large number of families, and this allows those arriving later on their pickup day to receive essentially an equal amount of items as those arriving earlier. Shepherdstown Shares reserves the right to limit what is distributed on any pickup day.
Can I pick up food more than once per week?
Since we are only open three days per week and the number of individuals and families have risen significantly, clients are limited to one pickup per week.
Can I pick up food for someone else?
Generally, no. However, if a client is unable to get to the pantry as they would otherwise, we will allow another to make their pickup for that week. Shepherdstown Shares will assess the situation on a weekly basis, and reserves the right to require individuals to once again make their own pickups once able.
I have pets. Is food available for them, too?
Yes. We have a limited amount of dog and cat food in stock. However, our supplies vary, so the distribution will be determined by the pantry weekly.
Do you accept food donations from individuals?
We gladly accept food donations from individuals. However, we request that this is arranged through our pantry coordinator. Our stock varies almost daily, so while we do not want to turn away any food donations, we also do not want to accept donations that may not be used in a reasonable amount of time.
Do you accept other donations besides food?
Currently, we can only accept food. If you have items besides food to donate, feel free to contact us, as we collaborate with other non-profits in the area and may be of assistance in directing you to the appropriate source.
I would like to volunteer at the pantry. How do I sign up?
To volunteer, please email help@shepherdstownshares.org with your name, contact information, and what you might like to do to help our community. We honor the generosity of all our volunteers and have many opportunities to serve.
Is Shepherdstown Shares just a food pantry?
Shepherdstown Shares was begun in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. The idea was to assist anyone unable to fully provide food for themselves or family due to loss of a job, illness or prolonged dire circumstance. It has since grown to be a very viable entity in Shepherdstown, primarily easing the burden of providing food for those finding it difficult to purchase nutritional, necessary items for themselves and family.
In addition to the pantry, we have recently expanded our Seniors Program as an outreach for our elderly neighbors, sponsor ongoing activities to support our community, and hold the People’s Ball each New Year’s Eve as an opportunity to celebrate and mingle with our friends and neighbors.
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