Matching Grant Drive Underway

Sometimes life isn't fair. The job didn't work out. Medical bills are claiming much of the paycheck. The cost of food is increasing. Some families just need to know they have help when life seems a little stormy.

That is the role of Table of Grace. The organization offers discount clothing, various furnishings and household items, and on the other side of the facility a food pantry for people struggling to feed their families.

The shelves are stocked with essentials for families in the Sidney area. Canned vegetables and fruits, meal mixes, fruit drinks and many other assorted home kitchen and household necessities.

These necessities are sought in a normal year by people struggling to stay employed and keep home expenses paid. That need continues even with COVID-19 considerations.

“We did have it open but limited to three at a time,” said Table of Grace Director Sherri Eads.

With the increased caution level, Table of Grace has returned to a by-appointment-only service. To schedule an appointment, call Cathy at 303-519-7602. If people are under quarantine, food can be delivered to Sidney addresses.

“The need has been really weird,” Eads said. “We used to average 40 people (per day). Now is down to 25.”

However, the number of families seeking help has increased, she said.

She added the Table of Grace continues to serve about 400 people per month. Table of Grace is open 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The first, third and fifth Thursday of each month, and 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The second and fourth Thursdays of each month. The Table of Grace is closed Thanksgiving.

Since Oct. 20, Table of Grace has been in a fundraising challenge. Bell Pole and Lumber will match their funds received up to $30,000. Table of Grace is about one-third of the way to their goal. The fundraising drive is through the month of December.

Checks can be made out to Table of Grace and mailed to Table of Grace, 1444 Jackson St., Sidney, Neb. 69162.

The fundraising letter says Table of Grace has 515 households registered with a total of 925 individuals; 315 whom are children under the age of 19.

Table of Grace also has a pantry in Oshkosh where 35 to 50 households are helped monthly. The program also assists the Dalton and Kimball monthly pantries with bread meat and dairy. Once a month, food is taken to seniors at the Western Heritage Apartments and to The Ark at Sioux Villa for the families of children who attend.

Table of Grace is outgrowing its current location and is seeking a larger facility.