Food pantry donations are needed at Sumter United Ministries

Sumter United Ministries is asking the public for donations to stock its food pantry.

According to the nonprofit, Sumter County has experienced a significant increase in the need for food assistance.

The nonprofit used to serve two to three families daily. Currently, they are assisting six to 10 families a day, an average of 20-30 individuals seeking support.

The food pantry shelves are emptying much faster, which is why they are seeking the community's help.

The pantry frequently runs out of the following items:

- Chef Boyardee

- Pasta Roni and Knorr pasta bags

- Knorr rice bags

- Beef stew

- Manwich

- Mac and cheese

- Dry instant milk

- Instant potatoes

- Jelly

- Grits (canisters and boxes of individual packages)

- Oatmeal (canisters and boxes of individual packages)

Donations can be gathered in various ways:

- Hosting a food drive

- Picking an extra item or two when grocery shopping

- Inviting your church, Sunday school class, book club, business, organization or civic group to participate

Donations can be dropped off at Sumter United Ministries, 36 Artillery Drive, Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.