PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. (7News) — The first Black-run food bank in the country serves the DMV area and is gearing up for its April distribution event next week.
The Storehouse is a grassroots food recovery and distribution organization based in Prince George’s County. It serves D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and South Carolina.
The food bank’s founder, Mel Johnson, tells 7News they serve more than 2,000 families facing food insecurity each month. Among those served are our nation’s veterans, senior citizens, and women-led households.
The Storehouse is a self-funded operation that accepts donations so this service can remain free to the community. Other than food, The Storehouse also provides mental health resources, gently used clothing, and baby supplies.
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Their goal this year is to serve 50,000 families and distribute 2.5 million pounds of food to those in need.
The food drive was originally scheduled for April 19, but has been moved to April 8 due to a scheduling conflict. The drive will start at 11:30 a.m. and end at 1:30 p.m. at Trinity Assembly of God in Latham, Md.
Registration is required, and can be done on the website here.
The food distributed isn’t boxed or packaged goods. It’s fresh, nutritious whole foods that could often be out of reach for many families who live in food deserts or affordability.
The Storehouse not only serves the community through this service, but it also recognizes others making a difference in the community. The annual Service Ball will be held on May 25.
At last year’s Service Ball, Johnson received an official citation from the Maryland General Assembly, celebrating the establishment of the state’s first Black-run food bank. She also accepted the Governor’s Citation, which honors The Storehouse’s contributions to the state.
To get more information about the gala, donate to their mission, or sign up for emergency groceries, visit the website.
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