A donation and up coming event by a local insurance agent is benefitting the establishment of a Food Pantry by Stone County OACAC.

State Farm Agent Maureen Darby, based in Kimberling City, presented a $10,000 donation from the State Farm Community Engagement Program to help with the establishment of the new "People's Pantry" that will be located at the front of property owned by Ignite in Reeds Spring. Darby was one of 100 State Farm Agents that were selected to present an award to a local organization based on their community involvement. In a press release, Darby says that this and other donations will help with the purchase of the building to house the pantry. 

Darby also tell's Ozarks Dynacom that her office will host a "Pack the Pantry" party on July 1st from 11 am to 4 pm to get donations for pantry supplies. 

The complete press release can be read below:
Local State Farm Agent, Maureen Darby, Branson West has a long history of demonstrating what it means to be a Good Neighbor by stepping up to help her community. On May 24, Maureen Darby presented OACAC’s Stone County Neighborhood Center staff and board members with a $10,000 grant from State Farm® as part of our Outstanding Community Engagement Program. OACAC was selected by State Farm Agent Maureen Darby as part of their recognition for being 1 of 100 agents nationwide who were specially selected for their outstanding community engagement.  
“At State Farm, we are committed to helping build stronger communities,” says Agent Maureen Darby.  “For me, it's not enough to simply say we’re a Good Neighbor; we embrace the responsibility to make this community better by being a part of a solution, especially at a time when there are so many needs. This grant, along with some other local donations, make the purchase of the building for the People’s Pantry a reality. We will continue to work together to serve our community.” 
OACAC staff member, Deb Uhrig, said “This project has grown with the partnerships of many in our community.  This 24/7 People’s Pantry will sit on the front property at Ignite in Reeds Spring.   The pantry is in a perfect location; it’s going to fulfill the needs of so many in Stone County.  The other thing to remember is this facility is ‘for the people, by the people.’  Those who have, can donate at any time directly to the pantry or through the OACAC office.”     
To contribute to this exciting community project, contact Debbie or Brandi at the OACAC Stone County Neighborhood Center:  417 272-0588.