OBSERVER Photo by Natasha Matteliano A food giveaway by the Salvation Army in Dunkirk will take place Tuesday.

The Salvation Army in Dunkirk continues to give food away to those in need. A food giveaway is coming up on Tuesday.

Over 10,000 pounds of food has been given away from the Salvation Army food pantry since COVID-19 made its presence known in the country. Thousands of pounds are given away at each monthly event, which is currently being held on every fourth Tuesday at the Salvation Army in Dunkirk at 704 Central Ave.

The event is held near the end of the month because its purpose is to provide families in need with food to last them through to the beginning of the next month. Since March, the food given away has been in pre-packed boxes because of social distancing.

“We’re hoping to open up the pantry to the public again in early July so families can have their choice,” said Major John Merchant, county coordinator for the Salvation Army. “The deliveries will end this month.”

The need for food increased a lot during March and April, Merchant said. The overall need went down in May, but may be larger this month because of the area opening back up. During March and April, the pantry provided food for almost 300 families in the Dunkirk area. Last month, 110 families were helped with the food giveaway.

Merchant and his wife are both very passionate about helping the community in this way.

“My wife and I became ministers about 18 years ago because when we were younger, our families needed help,” Merchant said. “We have a passion to get the necessary items to the people who are suffering and need help. We love to help people and we hope the community can see that.”

The next food giveaway is coming up on Tuesday from noon to 2 p.m. Anybody in need is welcome. The giveaway will be held at the Salvation Army in Dunkirk.

For those who are not in need and can offer support, Major Merchant explained that they accept food donations and monetary donations to buy more food. The center is not currently taking clothing or other items. He also encourages people to like their Facebook page, called “The Salvation Army Dunkirk NY.”