Free banquet to support Neosho Food Pantry

The Help Center of Neosho, a local food pantry, is holding their 2nd Annual Fundraiser Banquet on September 19 and the community is invited to join them. The banquet is free to attend and includes dinner.

“Not everyone can give money but everyone can share a vision and support in other ways,” said Help Center Director Maritza Moore. She hopes the community will attend the banquet and learn about the many ways they can serve this food pantry and help those in need across Newton County. 

“Yes, we need financial support to continue this mission but we also need the community to share the vision,” Moore said. The Help Center has been helping fight food insecurity for families in Neosho and surrounding communities since 1998.

Last year the nonprofit organization saw 32,783 visits by individuals and families needing food assistance. That number included nearly 1 in 3 families who had children in the home and 100 U.S. veterans that counted on the Help Center for food support.

“I have a heart for our neighbors,” Moore said. “Everyone requires a little help at some point in our lives and the Bible commands us to love each other.”

Those needing assistance can often be caught in a financial transition leaving them unable to purchase groceries.

“A lady came in needing help from us, she had just gotten a job but wasn’t able to buy food,” Moore explained. “We were able to assist her with groceries and even clothing suitable for her new work position. She returned after she got her first paycheck and made a donation to repay the support.”

The Help Center relies on donations and volunteers to continue the vital work of providing safe and nutritious foods for those in need.

Guests at the banquet will have the opportunity to hear about the pantry’s mission, community impact, and continued efforts to provide assistance to local families. 

Moore encouraged the community to join them in a meal while enjoying fellowship and learning about this ministry. She hopes everyone will catch the vision of their work and be inspired to join in assisting the Help Center by becoming a donor or volunteer.

Any business, organization, or church wishing to support the work of the Help Center can become a banquet sponsor for a $250 donation. Benefits include recognition at the banquet, logo on the groups website, and special recognition on their social media channels.

The Help Center’s 2nd Annual Fundraiser Banquet will be held at the Rocketdyne Road Church of Christ in Neosho at 6:00pm on September 19.

Anyone wishing to attend the banquet should RSVP by September 12 at helpcenterneosho.org or call 417-592-2548.