Local Churches and Organizations Expand Food Support Programs for Community Needs

In Citrus County, several churches and organizations are actively providing food support and other necessary assistance to those in need, reflecting a commitment to mercy and neighbor-love as highlighted in Matthew 25:35. The Citrus County Veterans Coalition ensures that honorably discharged veterans and their surviving spouses have access to food items. Their pantry operates every Tuesday year-round and on the first and third Thursdays of each month, except during July through September. The pantry is located at 1081 N. Paul St., and for those who cannot attend during these hours, Richard Floyd can be contacted at 352-400-8952 to arrange alternative pickup times.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Citrus Springs offers free food boxes from its pantry. Interested individuals can contact the church through their new auto-phone system at 352-489-4858 to arrange for assistance. This initiative exemplifies the church’s dedication to serving the community, aligning with the biblical principle of caring for one’s neighbor.
The Salvation Army provides a robust food assistance program, operating a food pantry from Monday through Thursday, with hours from 9-10:45 a.m. and 1-1:45 p.m. at 712 S. School Ave., Lecanto. Additionally, they offer hot meals at multiple locations: Daystar in Crystal River every Tuesday from 4-5 p.m., and at the Lions Club in Homosassa every Wednesday during the same hours. These meals are free and available to anyone in need, reflecting the organization’s commitment to feeding the hungry as mentioned in Hebrews 13:16.
North Oak Church in Citrus Springs distributes food and other necessary items on the fourth Saturday of each month at 9 a.m. The process is straightforward, with no church affiliation required. Attendees enter from North Citrus Springs Boulevard and exit onto North Elkcam Boulevard after receiving assistance. Further information can be obtained by calling 352-489-1688.
First Baptist Church Beverly Hills hosts a drive-thru Food Pantry on the third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Additionally, the church offers emergency food supplies on Mondays and Wednesdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The church is located at 4950 N. Lecanto Highway, Beverly Hills, and can be reached at 352-746-2970.
Red Level Baptist Church’s Living Bread Food Pantry provides food distribution from 4-5 p.m. on the second Wednesday and from 9-10 a.m. on the last Wednesday of each month. The pantry, located at 11025 W. Dunnellon Road, Crystal River, also distributes toiletries and clothing. For those requiring emergency assistance outside these times, the church offers additional support, demonstrating a commitment to serving the community in line with Galatians 6:10.

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