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This article was originally published in the Dayton 24/7 Now which can be found here.

BELLBROOK, Ohio (WKEF) — Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Community Support Center reopens in new location.

The food pantry will continue to serve residents of Bellbrook and Sugarcreek at their new location on East Franklin in downtown Bellbrook.

“The need is growing. The economy has been difficult for the past couple of years. Inflation is still high. So we’re here to cover food insecurity for people who need it, especially families. So we are serving, on our list we have well over 150 households,” said Cindy Comperchio, Executive Director of BSCSC.

Center leaders said the Sugar Maple Festival felt like the perfect time to re-introduce themselves to the community they serve. They also raffled off several baskets for their fundraising efforts.

“They help put a focus on the people who are not usually seen in our community, and they are the vehicle through which we can join everybody else and contribute to the community,” said Mike and Lisa Glinski, donors at BSCSC.

“I love my Bellbrook a lot. It means a lot to me. This is my home, Bellbrook,” said Michael Compton, a BSCSC volunteer.

They are open every week for those that need food or those looking to donate. They also do distributions on Wednesdays and special events around the holidays.

This article was originally published in the Dayton Daily News which can be found here. The Bellbrook Sugarcreek Community Support Center provides everything from food, hygiene products, diapers, household items, clothes and other social services. A “birthday wishes” program created by executive director Kelsey Hurlburt allows clients in need to sign up their child to receive a gift purchased by a community member and a cupcake from a local bakery.

The number receiving services from the center has increased from just a few families before the pandemic to more than 50 per week, most from the Bellbrook-Sugarcreek area. While much of the massive increase can be attributed to increased visibility of the center, part of it is due to lingering effects of COVID.