BY JIIM BEERS
The Chester Area Christian Food Pantry (CACFP) continues to host its monthly Mobile Markets which distribute food items to qualifying families. The July and August 2026 markets served approximately 225 families. The Mobile Markets take place each month on the 4th Wednesday at approximately 8 a.m. at the Cohen Recreation Complex in Chester.
The July Mobile Market took place on Wednesday July 22. The CACFP served 209 households that had 560 individuals. Of those 560 individuals, 187 were children. Throughout the month of July peanut butter was needed as well as kids snacks such as Lunchables since children were still at home without the benefit of having school lunches. That Mobile Market served about 105 different vouchers.
The August 2026 Mobile Market was held Wednesday August 26 and served almost 120 different vouchers. Some of the food items distributed included potatoes, Fresh ears of corn on the cob, heads of cabbage, meats, dried pineapple slices, fresh peaches and fresh peppers. Approximately 25 volunteers assisted with the distribution.
During the Month of July 2026 the Chester Area Christian Food Pantry served 232 households that had 604 individuals, 188 which were children. In July, cans of tuna fish were needed as well as canned or bagged pastas, and canned fruit. Monetary donations are always appreciated to help purchase items that are not donated.
The CACFP is open on Wednesdays from 8 a.m. till 2 p.m. Vouchers are required to visit the pantry. The next Mobile Market will take place Wednesday September 23 at 8 a.m. at the Cohen Recreation Complex parking lot in Chester.
The St. Louis Area Food Bank truck unloads several pallets of fresh food items to be distributed to voucher-holders at the August 26 Chester Area Christian Food Pantry Mobile Market. Jim Beers Photo
Approximately 25 volunteers assist Food Pantry personnel sort and bag numerous pallets of fresh food items at the August 26 CACFP Mobile Market. Jim Beers Photo