Local News & Commentary Since 1890.

Posts Tagged ‘greene county fish pantry’

, , , , , ,

Greene County FISH Pantry Announces Change to Thanksgiving Meal Distribution

In Food, Health, Holiday, Local News, Uncategorized on September 25, 2025 at 12:53 pm

By Gery Deer

XENIA, OH — For many Greene County families, the annual Thanksgiving meal distribution hosted by the FISH Pantry has become a cherished tradition. However, this year, due to federal and state budget cuts, the Pantry is shifting its focus.

Instead of the large-scale Saturday giveaway that typically draws hundreds of families and requires a massive volunteer effort, the Greene County FISH Pantry will offer a more flexible alternative: a “Thanksgiving Corner” available during regular shopping hours for the four weeks leading up to the holiday.

“While it is only September, we at the Greene County FISH Pantry are already looking forward to helping you serve a great Thanksgiving Day meal in your home to celebrate with family,” said Mike Reeves, Executive Director. “With Federal and State budget cuts, we have made the decision to do something a little different this year.”

The Thanksgiving Corner will allow eligible shoppers—those who have visited the Pantry at least four times in the past twelve months—to receive traditional holiday meal items during their regular visits. This change aims to reduce logistical strain while still providing meaningful support.

Thanks to donors and sponsors, the Pantry plans to offer mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, sweet potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, biscuit mix, and a choice of small turkey, turkey breast, roasting chicken, or small ham.

Reeves emphasized the importance of community support: “Any donations of these items would be greatly appreciated.” Contributions can be dropped off at 774 Cincinnati Ave., Xenia, OH 45385, Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. For drop-offs outside those hours, donors are encouraged to call Reeves directly at 937-372-8441.

Financial donations from private and corporate sources are always welcome. Contact Reeves or visit www.gcfp.org/donate for more information. Though the format has changed, the mission remains the same: ensuring Greene County families can gather around a warm, festive meal this Thanksgiving.

, , , , , , ,

Chamber event sheds light on food insecurity

In Local News, Uncategorized on May 16, 2025 at 8:29 am

By Gery Deer

Courtesy Xenia Daily Gazette / Greene County News

XENIA — The Greene County FISH Pantry hosted the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce after-hours event Wednesday.

The monthly networking program offered participants an opportunity to learn more about the food pantry’s mission and meet Mike Reeves, the new executive Director and operations manager.

After-Hours visitors were given tours of the pantry facility and its newest addition, a food storage warehouse they call “the barn.”

Each month, the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce presents the event at different member locations throughout the city. The after-hours event allows other chamber members, residents, and civic leaders to learn more about the host organization and their contributions to the region.

Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce President Donna Saraga opened the event by introducing Reeves and sharing why they chose to have the event at the pantry.

“We know many people have never been in the building or haven’t been for a long time, and we thought it was a great opportunity to learn more about the facility and meet Mike,” Saraga said.

Discussion topics included the continuing need for food security in Greene County through food and monetary contributions from residents and businesses. Members of the board of directors and the executive director provided guests with tours of the facility, including the newly constructed food storage warehouse, recently named in honor of the previous executive director of the pantry, Gail Matson.

Reeves provided some history about the pantry and the facility, then spoke of the people involved with the organization such as their clients and volunteers.

“It absolutely warms your heart to see these people, and the volunteers are what makes this place work,” Reeves said. “I really appreciate everyone coming to see the building and learn more about what we do, and thanks to Donna and the Xenia Chamber for having this here today.”

He also noted that the pantry serves more than 100 clients during each day’s distribution, up to 90 on those days reserved for veterans and active military service families. More information on the Greene County FISH Pantry is available online at http://www. gcfp.org.

The next Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce After Hours will be on June 11, hosted at Toward Independence in Xenia.

For more information about the chamber, visit its website at xacc.org, and for more information on the FISH pantry, visit its website at gcfp.org.

, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Greene County FISH Pantry Welcomes Gery L. Deer to Board of Directors

In Local News on December 19, 2024 at 5:24 pm

Xenia, Ohio – December 19, 2024 – Gail Matson, Executive Director of the Greene County FISH Pantry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Gery L. Deer to their Board of Directors. Deer brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to community service that aligns perfectly with the mission of the Pantry.

Gery L. Deer is the founder and creative director of GLD Communications, a marketing and public relations agency based in Jamestown. He is a contributing writer for the Xenia Daily Gazette and a recognized leader in the Greene County community, known for his extensive work in the fields of communications and community engagement. With a background in journalism and public relations, Deer has been dedicated to advocating for vital social issues and supporting local charitable organizations.

Gery Deer of Jamestown has joined the Greene County FISH Pantry Board of Directors.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gery to our Board of Directors,” said Matson. “His passion and enthusiasm for serving our community and his professional expertise in communication will help us enhance our outreach efforts and better serve our clients.”

As a board member, Deer will work closely with staff and volunteers to set policies, ensure financial health, and promote awareness of the Pantry’s services. His appointment comes at a critical time as the organization adapts to increased demand for food assistance services in the community.

“I’m honored to join the Greene County FISH Pantry Board of Directors,” said Gery L. Deer. “I look forward to collaborating with this talented group and supporting the mission of providing essential resources to those in need. Together, we can positively impact the lives of our neighbors in Greene County.” Deer also serves on the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Marketing Committee and is a founding member and communications chair of the Adult Patient Advocacy Council of the international Association of the Bladder Exstrophy Community.

“The Greene County FISH Pantry relies on the support of dedicated individuals and community partners to fulfill its mission,” Deer added. “With the help of our board, our dedicated volunteers, and the community’s financial support, the Pantry will continue making a significant difference in the lives of families in the region.”

To donate or for more information about the Greene County FISH Pantry, please visit our website at www.gcfp.org.

Is this your new site? Log in to activate admin features and dismiss this message
Log In