According to Cynthia Wickwire Lundquist, pastor of the Fredonia Presbyterian Church, more than 4,800 pounds of food were collected. “For 2019, we, the members of the Fredonia Presbyterian Church, are incredibly proud to be part of this community,” Lundquist said in a news release of the Feeding Fredonia Challenge. “Once again, the shelves of the Fredonia Food pantry are stocked.”

Lundquist again noted the need in the community for a pantry is great. The village location served more than 300 people, with many of them as regular guests. The total food distributed amounts to over 3,500 meals. Also, she noted, the Fredonia Central School District reports that 36% of the children qualify for free or reduced price lunches. “The need is real and the village didn’t ignore those in need,” she said.

Numerous businesses — and even the school and its students as well as the State University stepped up again this year, she said.

“Finally, two groups had their own collections and made donations: Canadaway 4-H and the Hammerhead Swim Team,” Lundquist said. “Also, more than ever before, we had other generous people who just dropped off donations without identifying themselves. A number of generous individuals made financial donations that contributed to our success, adding up to over $350.”

Volunteers with Fredonia Presbyterian Church sort food ahead of a distribution day.

The pantry is open the third Saturday of the month and located at the church at 219 Central Ave.