Paul's Pantry.
GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A Green Bay food pantry is trying to keep up with the increasing number of people coming through its doors, which is also driving up the need for volunteers.
Paul’s Pantry is known for their free groceries to help struggling families, but now they’re seeing record numbers of people needing their services.
“It’s just been crazy busy,” Paul’s Pantry Executive Director Craig Robbins said.
It was an average Wednesday morning at Paul’s Pantry, as more than 200 shoppers packed the aisles to hunt for their favorite foods. The pantry is seeing a 16% increase in visits so far this year — on top of a 25% increase last year.
“I keep saying, ‘Oh, this is gonna be it, this is gonna be it’ and it keeps getting busier and busier. I’m really hoping that we level off,” Robbins said.
Robbins said 2023 was a record year for Paul’s Pantry, and their numbers have continued to grow ever since, with no signs of slowing down. He said the economy has been the main driver behind the increase in demand.
“When you have to come up with another $400 bucks for rent, where do you get it? Wages are not rising as quickly as the cost of groceries,” Robbins said.
Last year alone, Paul’s Pantry distributed 5.3 million pounds of food to people in need. That’s more than they’ve given out in their entire 41-year existence. They distribute 23,000 pounds of food five days a week.
“It’s wonderful to see people come in and we’re able to put a smile on their face and food on their table,” Paul’s Pantry volunteer Nancy Voegtline said.
Voegtline has been volunteering at Paul’s Pantry for 23 years. With around 240 people coming through a day, and relying 100% on the community — they’re in need of more help to serve everyone. Voegtline said it’s fulfilling work.
“It’s so beneficial. We’re here for everybody, for everybody. We’re a unity, and I can’t say enough good things about it,” Voegtline said.
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