Some heroes fight supervillains, and others feed the community. Layola Sarver falls into the latter category. Since 2008, Sarver has been working with the Ronceverte Food Pantry, ensuring those who live or work in the community do not go hungry.
Even though her journey with the food pantry began in 2008, it was not until 2016 that Sarver gained the promotion to Director. She noted that the person who was previously in charge decided to step down and asked Sarver if she would be interested in taking over. Sarver said she responded with a reference to The Little Engine That Could. She said, “I think I can, I think I can.”
There are many facets to running a vital organization. Sarver said she is passionate about the food pantry because she loves “being able to give people stuff and knowing that you are going to help feed them.” She continued saying, “I enjoy it, I enjoy the people. Most of them are very kind and appreciative of what they get.”
An enormous amount of work goes into the operation of the food pantry, and as the saying goes, “it takes a village.” Sarver says she could not do what she does without the help of volunteers.
Some individuals come to the pantry to gain College Community Service hours. A few college students recently spent some time helping out. One of the college student volunteers, Coy Linton, said, “It was a pleasure to meet Mrs. Sarver while doing my College Community Service hours. I’m inspired by her dedication and unwavering commitment. It was a humbling experience and I plan to continue volunteering at the Ronceverte Food Pantry.”
When talking about the many volunteers who come through the pantry, Sarver said, “The people that helped me have just been fantastic. I couldn’t ask for better.”
Sarver reminisced about an encounter she recently had while working in the pantry.
“I was getting stuff ready the other day and this family came by, and she said ‘we’re in tow, and we can’t get any food. Is there any place you could tell us to go?’ I had them come in. She said they were here to try for a job. I asked them how many people were in their family and had them put their names on my list along with how many and I gave them food. She called me yesterday and said `I don’t know what we would have done,’ That sticks in my mind because they were trying to make a go and I appreciate anybody that tries to do that.”
Another important moment for Sarver is feeding the Gateway workers across the street from the pantry. She said, “The Gateway is right across the street from us. And they have workers that are handicapped. They do jobs for other businesses, like they package stuff for them and similar things. Well, I see that they have food. I give them enough food for 14 families every two weeks and I think they are really some of the most appreciative people. They work hard, but they don’t get a lot of money working over there, but they are the nicest people.”
Preparation for a Saturday food giveaway begins days in advance. Food items are gathered and sorted. Then, on Friday afternoon, Sarver says she has the group come in and pack everything up and get it “ready to go.” She said they provide those who come in with fresh meat, vegetables, fresh fruits and canned goods.
According to Sarver, when someone comes in, they provide their name and home many people are in their household. Sarver said this is how they determine how much food to give them.
If you or someone you know is struggling with food insecurity, help is available. Sarver and people like her fight every day to ensure no one goes hungry. For anyone looking for a cause to donate your time or money to, consider donating to your local food pantry and be part of someone’s brighter tomorrow.
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