ALBANY, NY – A new free food pantry has just launched in Albany, providing crucial support for families in need as government shutdowns leave many struggling to feed their loved ones. The Proctor/Hood family, inspired by a TikTok video showcasing similar efforts in Pittsburgh, has taken action to help their community during this urgent crisis.
Jordan Proctor, alongside her husband Ben and mother Michele Hood, established the mini food pantry on their property near Stuart Avenue in northwest Albany. This initiative responds to the growing desperation felt by many locals as federal employees, including Ben, face furloughs and financial uncertainty. “We’ve seen first-hand how this shutdown affects the community,” Ben Proctor stated. “We wanted to do all we could to help.”
The pantry, which operates out of a repurposed gazebo adorned with lights for visibility at night, quickly became a vital resource for those in need. “We started gathering food items and turned our storage room shelf into a community pantry,” Jordan Proctor explained. “It feels good to do something to help, but it’s disheartening that the need is so great.”
Since its inception, the pantry has drawn significant attention, with locals like Rodney Jones and Carlos Cody making stops to collect essentials. “There’s a great need in our community and all over the country,” Jones remarked, commending the family for their efforts. “It’s heartwarming to see people willing to help those suffering.”
Just this past weekend, Ben Proctor filled his truck with supplies from Walmart, funded entirely by community donations. “Everything you see here will be gone in a few hours,” he noted, highlighting the urgent demand for food. The Proctor family is committed to restocking the pantry several times a day, ensuring that it remains a reliable source of nourishment for the community.
The family has also received generous support from local residents, who are encouraged to contribute food or funds. Jordan Proctor hopes to expand their efforts further: “We plan to add more shelves to increase the amount of food we can provide,” she said. “It’s truly about helping our neighbors.”
Despite concerns from skeptics about potential misuse of the pantry, Ben Proctor affirmed that the community response has been overwhelmingly positive. “People come in to take what they need, and they’re grateful,” he stated. “If someone were to take everything, that’s on them, but so far, we’ve seen compassion in action.”
The food pantry, located at the intersection of Stuart Avenue and Pearl Avenue, has become a beacon of hope for those in distress. Sheneka Moore, an employee at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, expressed her admiration for the initiative. “I live close by and wanted to donate as soon as I saw this,” she said. “It’s an amazing idea.”
Michele Hood emphasized that the pantry is inclusive, stating, “It’s not about politics, religion, or race. It’s about helping our neighbors.” The family plans to keep the pantry operational for the foreseeable future, inviting anyone interested in supporting this initiative to call (229) 349-4948.
As the Proctor/Hood family continues their mission to alleviate hunger in Albany, their story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact individuals can make in times of crisis. The community’s response highlights the urgency of their work and the pressing need for support during these challenging times.
