As many Habersham County families prepare for reductions or loss of SNAP benefits, one long-standing local food program is stepping up to help.
For more than two decades, the Open Door Food Ministry—operated through The Torch Worship Center—has provided groceries to families across Habersham County and surrounding areas. The ministry began nearly 25 years ago with a simple mission: to make sure no one in the community goes hungry.
“We don’t check to see whether someone is losing SNAP benefits or not,” said Pastor Mike Thomas, Outreach and Missions Pastor at The Torch. “If someone needs food, they’re welcome. We’re here for single parents, families, seniors, anyone. If you’re struggling, just come. That’s the whole point.”
Volunteers line up to distribute food at the Open Door Food Ministry, Photo Courtesy The Torch
Two Ways to Receive Food
The ministry offers two types of assistance:
Mobile Food Pantry
- First Saturday of Each Month
- 8:00 a.m. at The Torch Worship Center
- 800 Cannon Bridge Road, Demorest
During these events, volunteers distribute approximately 40,000 pounds of food to families in a single morning. Participants remain in their vehicles while volunteers load food directly into cars.
Walk-In Food Pantry
Located at the former United Way building:
- 236 Level Grove Road, Cornelia
- Hours:
- Monday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Wednesday: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
The flexible hours are designed so that anyone working shift jobs can still receive help.
Who Can Come?
Anyone.
The ministry does not limit services by county or income level.
“We serve Habersham and at least five surrounding counties,” Thomas said. “Whoever shows up, we minister to. That’s our approach.”
How to Help
With the expected rise in food insecurity, community support is needed now more than ever.
Donate Money
100% of donated funds go directly to purchasing food.
Visit thetorch.net and mark your contribution for the Food Ministry, or mail/deliver donations to:
The Torch Worship Center
800 Cannon Bridge Road
Demorest, GA 30535
Donate Food
Preferred items:
- Canned meats (tuna, chicken, beef, ham)
- Canned vegetables
- Non-perishable staples your own family would eat
“If your family will eat it, another family will too,” said Thomas.
Drop-off locations:
- During pantry hours at 236 Level Grove Road, or
- At The Torch (800 Cannon Bridge Road) during office hours
Volunteer
No sign-up required.
Just show up:
- Mobile Pantry: First Saturday monthly, 8:00 a.m.
- Walk-In Pantry: During open hours listed above
Groups are welcome.
Volunteers regularly include families, schools, churches, businesses, and students from Habersham Central and Piedmont University.
Contact
For questions or more information:
706-778-4063
The Open Door Food Ministry is preparing for what may be one of the largest increases in food needs in recent years. Still, Pastor Thomas remains hopeful.
“Every month we see people helping people,” he said. “This community shows up. And with everything going on, that matters more now than ever.”