The food collected locally goes directly to the Lindy Bush Food Pantry, located behind the Good Neighbor Thrift Store. Last year alone, the Navarre community donated an impressive 10,400 pounds of food during the drive – all of which went directly to the Lindy Bush Food Pantry, located behind the thrift store. From there, the We Care Ministry distributes the food throughout the year to individuals and families right here in the local area.
“The Navarre post office staff and rural carriers help make the food drive such a success and run so smoothly,” said Manager Laura Beth Snow, who manages the food pantry and the thrift store.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of volunteers works tirelessly to sort, inspect, and organize each donation. Every item is carefully checked and dated to ensure that food distributed meets safety standards and preserves the dignity of those receiving assistance. “We take pride in our work here in the pantry and in serving the community,” said volunteer Lisa. “It makes my heart feel good.”
That spirit of generosity extends throughout the entire operation. “The charitable spirit of our volunteers with their time and abilities is shared by many,” said assistant manager Cuyler Jones. “With lots of drivers, coordinators, sorters, and box lifters, the process of getting the food from our neighbors’ driveways to the shelves in our food pantry ready for distribution—it’s amazing how so much can be done in just one day.”
While the Stamp Out Hunger food drive is a major annual event, the need for support continues year-round. Donations of non-perishable food items are always welcomed at the Lindy Bush Food Pantry. As Jones noted, “We had some people drop off food the last couple of days, which we are happy to receive anytime.” Whether during the food drive or beyond, every contribution helps nourish neighbors and strengthen the community.
Looking for some unique finds, affordable clothes or patriotic decorations? Come shop at Good Neighbor Thrift Store.
And what is the best part of shopping here? Proceeds of the store go back into ministry and directly help the people of Navarre.
They are open, both for shopping and accepting donations, Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“We are a small store that does great big things,” Snow said.
The proceeds from the thrift store go right back into the community and the ministries of the church. The store, We Care Ministries and the food pantry, have approximately 130 volunteers, who all work together, making Navarre a better place.
“We are in the business of helping people and the community, and I love it”, said Jo, the thrift store librarian.
Snow is very thankful for the numerous volunteers that dedicate their time to helping the mission of Good Neighbor Thrift Store. She is also blessed to have her assistant managers Candace Anderson and Cuyler Jones as part of the Good Neighbor team.
“Candace and Clark (Cuyler) are a key part of our process and our success,” Snow brags on her assistants. “They are so talented and really keep the place running along smoothly.
I am so fortunate to have such great people to work alongside. We three make a great team.”
Good Neighbor Thrift Store
9025 Navarre Parkway
Store/Donation Hours:
Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat.: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(850) 515-0109