Durham church food pantry sees demand grow with coronavirus job losses

For Pastor Julio Rameriz and his wife, Martha, the Wednesday routine incudes food distribution to a growing neighborhood of need.

“From 60 families a week, we’re up to over 350 a week for the last few weeks with no end in sight," said Martha Rameriz.

People line up hours ahead of the pick-up time on Roxboro Road and, within an hour and a half, the food is gone. Longtime volunteer Joe Cameron said since the pantry’s establishment 10 years ago, he’s never seen anything like this.

“I had no idea it would be that many people coming. You start off with something so small, and it just grew," he said.

This is all done on a stretched church budget. Local ministries, businesses, the Durham Farmer’s Market and other food pantries are donating food, money and time to fulfill the demand.

“Neighbors from around the block will come out and bring us food, different donations. They’ll come out and help direct traffic," said Rose Rameriz, the pastor’s daughter.

She’s home from college and helping her family with the church pantry.

"You just really see a sense of community — different churches, people of different languages. It makes you feel hopeful for what’s to come after this," she added.

Resources to get through the coronavirus economic slowdown

Distribution begins at 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Anyone can drop off items for donation at 2504 N. Roxboro St.