By Cindy Jackson
Reporter
December 18, 2019
Barnabas, known for “connecting people, help and hope,” provides food to individuals and families in need in West Nassau County on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month. That distribution, with food provided by Feeding Northeast Florida takes place at the Callahan Fairgrounds, located at 543378 US – 1.
On any given day, about 100 people sign-up to receive food. And on any given distribution day, it takes between 20-30 volunteers to make it all happen. Robert Peck is the food program manager for Barnabas and Kim Cherry is the volunteer coordinator. JEA, Rotary Clubs in the area and the Lion’s Club of Callahan frequently provide able-bodied individuals to help with the heavy lifting – and more.
According to the Barnabas website, more than 13 percent of our neighbors here in Nassau County don’t know where their next meal is coming from.
As explained by Barnabas spokesperson, Alexandra Winsor, “For families to be considered for assistance, they need to make an appointment at [the Barnabas] main office where they need to present proof of Nassau County residency, social security cards for all members of the household, proof of income for the entire household, current lease/rental agreement and final notice and current rental/lease agreement. Families or individuals must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.”
To check on dates and time, to find out how you can help, participate or volunteer, call Barnabas at (904) 261-7000
Editor’s Note: Born in
Hagerstown, Maryland, Cindy received her BA in Political Science from Dickinson College. Upon graduation, Cindy began her career on Capitol Hill working as a legislative aide and director. She later became a part of the public relations and lobbying team of the American Iron and Steel Institute and served as director of the office of state legislative affairs for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Cindy was involved in economic development with the state of Maryland, and served as executive director of Leadership Washington County. As a community volunteer, Cindy participates in numerous volunteer activities serving as a member of Sunrise Rotary, and as board member of Cummer Amelia Board of Directors.