Golden K chairperson Sue Proudfit, left, introduces Monday’s guest speakers Fran Gundlach, center, St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry Vice President and Mary Gagala, St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry President. Joanne Lindholm photo

KINGSFORD — The last Monday in September greeted the Golden K seniors with warm sunshine and beautiful fall colors. It was a perfect fall day. Gathering together and happily chattering about their weekend festivities, the fellowship hall at the First Presbyterian Church became a beehive of activity. Chair Sue Proudfit rang the bell and inaugurated opening ceremonies. Members pick a table, grab a cup of coffee and an optional doughnut, and prepare for singing. Alyce Derwinski on piano teamed up with Lois Outcelt and a list of songs. Music soon filled the room.

The “Welcome Song” was sung for guests Mary Gagala and Fran Gundlach from the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry. Happy Birthday wishes were sung for Kirk Olson, Alyce Derwinski and Sarah Gospodarek. Sue Proudfit’s reminder that “a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” rounded out the day’s business.

Representing the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, Mary Gagala brought the group up-to-date for 2025. The food pantry and the St. Vincent de Paul thrift store have a connection although they operate as separate entities.

The food pantry currently operates with 22 volunteers. Several youth volunteers help with the Can-A-Thon sorting. The pantry is staffed daily 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for food distribution. Tuesday and Thursday are the days to receive and make calls. This organization depends on volunteers. Help and donations are always welcomed.

If you have extra paper grocery bags, drop them off at the center or the thrift shop.

This past year they serviced 722 households. This included 1,960 adults, 694 children, 280 seniors, and 132 veterans. A two-person family receives up to four bags of food. If you do that math, that’s several thousand bags of food distributed each year.

These are tough times for many. The pantry has seen an 25% increase in food assistance for seniors and veterans. This is coupled with a 8% increase in food costs as prices rise. St. Vincent’s also provides food baskets at Thanksgiving, Easter and Christmas.

In certain situations and emergencies they are able to assist with short-term lodging, gas cards for out-of-town medical appointments, vouchers for shoes and school supplies. Requests for assistance under their utility bills program increased 6%. These services for less fortunate in the community depend on community support and volunteers.

The Thrift Store recently underwent a major remodeling. It included floors, walls, cabinetry and shelving. The store was closed for about four weeks and is now open for business.

You are invited to check out the new look and wonderful bargains.

St. Vincent welcomes volunteers and can use new board members who meet about once a month. We all benefit from these two operations. By volunteering or donating — everyone gains.

Golden K meets at 10 a.m. today at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, with a scheduled program about pet therapy. All are welcome.