The Pathways Enrichment Center is dedicated to meeting the needs of Lorain residents this holiday season.
The center, located at 2505 Leavitt Road in Lorain, held its Thanksgiving food pantry in partnership with Second Harvest on Nov. 16. Hot meals were also available while inventory lasted.
Director Dr. Pastor Norva Ross said she was shocked by the turnout.
“We normally hold it on Thanksgiving but this is more people than we’ve ever had,” she said. “The turnout is really great, and I only wish I had more food to distribute.”
She said they are feeding more families on a regular basis.
“Food insecurity seems to be growing this year,” said Ross. “I see more of a need, and we’re feeding more people through our pantry.”
Many volunteers lended a helping hand during the event including Rose’s Faith, a South Lorain veteran home, and the Iota Phi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha.
First-time volunteer Jacqualine Thomas said she appreciates the wide variety of clients.
“I was so moved by the number of people that were there that I actually cried,” she said. “The program is so impactful and I was amazed to see the amount of food that Pathways has to distribute each day and how hard Dr. Ross works to make this happen.”
Ross said she is grateful that many wish to help their initiative.
“I’m amazed at the number of volunteers that came out today,” she said. “It’s very cold but we still have people willing to serve, and others offering to help.”
Ross said in case of a food shortage another Thanksgiving drive-through will be scheduled.
“We had so many people that running out of food was a reality,” she said. “My heart is to meet the need of food insecurity as a collaborative partner with Second Harvest.”
Pathways Enrichment Center’ annual Christmas Toy Program is collecting toys and games until Dec. 10 for youth ages 12 and under.
Toys can be dropped off at the office, 2505 Leavitt Road, on weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon.
The Christmas food distribution has not yet been scheduled.
