History

The Hanover Area Food Shelf was organized in 1980 under the Social Concerns and Community Relations Committee of St Pauls’ Lutheran Church, led by Helen Skutley. It was located in the kitchen, using one cupboard. From there it expanded to two storage areas in the church’s Fellowship Hall. Since 2001, we have been blessed with our own 800 square foot area in the lower level of St Paul's education wing and until her passing in 2025, Helen led the Hanover Area Food Shelf with kindness and compassion.

Today, we are in that same 800 sq ft space—consisting of two food storage areas, a cooler for fresh items, and two large freezers.

The Food Shelf is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization separate from the church, however we are very thankful to St Paul’s for allowing us to utilize this space!

Our food shelf is very blessed to be part of a wonderful, caring community. Over 16 civic groups and schools, over 20 area businesses and over 12 area church congregations support the food shelf with food, money and volunteers! Monetary donations are used to cover the gap between item donations and supplies needed. Thank you for your generous hearts! Our ability to be a vital resource to the community depends on MANY people and we are grateful for each and every one of you!!

In honor of Helen and the impact she had on the Food Shelf and our community, we will continue to serve others with the empathy and warmth that Helen inspired us all to do.