Dear editor,
In a June 4 article in the Iola Register, “Humanity House Shares Vision,” it was reported that the Iola Area Ministerial Association (IAMA) was no longer planning to operate the longstanding food pantry at 16 W. Broadway.
That is not the case. It was a misunderstanding. We regret any confusion caused for donors and clients of either organization.
The needs in Allen County are vast. No one organization can do it all on their own. While the IAMA food pantry is focused primarily on food and spiritual needs, Humanity House has an expansive vision. Both Humanity House and the IAMA are grateful for each other.
Organizations with similar purposes encourage one another. Healthy organizations dialogue with each other. Healthy organizations sometimes miscommunicate. Service organizations then proceed to continue to find ways to help those in need.
IAMA Board, Humanity House Board,
Iola, Kan.
Dear editor,
The Iola Area Ministerial Association (IAMA) remains committed to serving those in need of food and words of comfort. While several churches have distinct food ministries the IAMA Allen County Food Pantry is a partnership of churches, individuals, and community organizations. (Thank you community, for the 4,200 lbs. of food donated in May through the postal service).
Because of the extensive faith-based support, we are able to operate with a very low overhead. The food pantry is staffed solely by volunteers, including our director. The food pantry depends also on help from other organizations, including Feeding America (Walmart), and the Kansas Food Bank. At one time, Monsanto Corporation matched the monies given to the Food Pantry through the invest and acre program. Unfortunately, those matching-funds have come to an end, and our food costs will rise accordingly. For this reason, the support of churches and individuals is so vital to us.
In the last two years, the IAMA has taken significant steps to be responsive to the needs of the most vulnerable members of Allen County. The layout and flow of the building was re-arranged to give more privacy and dignity to those seeking assistance. In January 2016, the hours were changed to include evenings (Tuesday, 5:30-7), and weekends (Saturday, 11-12), as well as the traditional morning time (Thursday, 9-12). More changes are certain to come as we continue to serve our community with quality and excellence.
We look forward to the good work Humanity House will do in our community.
