I have been familiar with the work of the Mid-Ohio Food Bank for sometime, but it was only recently that I discovered that we have a food pantry in our neighborhood.
NNEMAP is short for Near Northside Emergency Material Assistance Program. It was founded in 1969 in the days before the neighborhood was known as the Short North. NNEMAP has become one of the largest food pantries in Franklin County and this year expects to distribute food to more than 20,000 people each year. This is approximately 180,000 meals.
At this time of year when we are starting to think about holiday gifts and Thanksgiving turkeys it’s a good moment to think about our less fortunate neighbors as well. NNEMAP is a tax-exempt charitable organization that relies on private donations and funding from area churches. It also relies heavily on volunteer support.
There are lots of ways to help NNEMAP
– Order a tax deductible Fraser Fir Christmas tree – orders must be placed by November 15th. Trees will be delivered for pick up on 12/4 the day after they are cut.
– Donate items for grooming kits (deodorant, razors, lotion) Every year 1,500 grooming kits are distributed.
– Donate canned goods for the homeless (with pop tops) or food for holiday dinners – gravy, canned sweet potatoes
– Help meet emergency needs – items such laundry detergent, toilet paper, sugar and flour
– Donate money or time. For every dollar donated NNEMAP can purchase eight pounds of food from the Mid-Ohio Food Bank.
NNEMAP is located at 1064 North High Street, Columbus
To find out more: www.nnemappantry.org
