During the consecrated time for High Holiday donations, the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry is reminding the Jewish community of a very important need in the coming months. The food pantry set a new record by serving 7,000 individuals in July, and the staff predicts the trend is likely to continue.

 “The challenge of helping a growing number of people is that simultaneously we have to increase the volume of donated food and the number of volunteers for the food pantry,” said Lou Albert, executive director of Jewish Family & Children’s Service, the agency that founded and administers the food pantry.

The food pantry, located at 10601 Baur Boulevard in Creve Coeur, is open for donations from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. In addition to canned goods, the pantry welcomes donations of meat and poultry, fresh produce, herbs, kosher or other dietary-based food products as well as toiletries, cleaning supplies and even pet food. Staff will work with anyone needing to donate under special circumstances, including after-hours drop-offs or large, pallet donations.

“Right now we are specifically requesting donations of meat. Our supply is based on USDA allotments, and due to government uncertainties, we cannot predict what those amounts will be for the coming months,” said Cory Eichorn, food pantry manager. “But we can say for sure it will be way down.”

The food pantry accepts donations — including monetary contributions — from individuals and stores or organizations. Individuals in the community with a lead to a potential wholesale or retail supplier that could become a regular supporter is invited to contact the food pantry as well.

Volunteers are also sought to help with registration, shopping, sorting and stocking food, office work or data entry. For more information about donating to the food pantry or volunteering, call Marcia Mermelstein at 314-513-1674.