Talk of the Town

New rules at Brandon Area Food Pantry

The Brandon Area Food Pantry will continue to operate, but is no longer allowing shoppers inside the building. To protect both shoppers and Pantry staff, executive director Linda Weber said they have changed how groceries and other items are now being dispersed. Staff is now bagging groceries, then placing them in a grocery cart and leaving them outside the door for the intendent recipient.

Shoppers are asked to call ahead for an appointment and are reminded to bring two forms of ID and their driver’s license. They will also continue to fill out the card and sign the back, handing it to a Pantry staffer at the door.

“We need to make this change so we may continue to provide for those in need,” Weber said. “We are an emergency-only, five-day food pantry and we don’t want to stop this. We want to help the people who need help, and this way we can continue to do business as normal as possible.”

Current needs at the Brandon Area Food Pantry includes granola bars, Banquet Homestyle Bakes, instant oatmeal (flavored), peanut butter, hard taco shells, bagged noodles (egg noodles, elbow macaroni, etc.), bagged cereals, microwave popcorn, tampons, dog and cat food (both 3-pound bags and canned). 

Before donating food items, please check expiration dates and that cans are not bulging from age and/or freezing. Monetary donations are also appreciated.

The BAFP is open 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 406 Main Ave.

To learn more, call 605-582-7001.

BVSD Teacher of Year nominations sought

Nominations for the 2020 Brandon Valley Teacher of the Year are now being accepted from parents, students and staff.

Nomination forms can be picked up at any district principal’s office, the central office or printed from the district website, brandonvalley.k12.sd.us. Two letters of recommendation are also required.

Nominations are due to the BVSD Central Office by 5 p.m. Thursday, April 9.