A gem of the Northside is The River Food Pantry. The River, located at 2201 Darwin Rd., offers food, hot meals, clothing and household items to families in Dane County. All services are provided free of charge to folks that need them. This is the busiest food pantry in Dane County, each week serving more than 600 families in the pantry and more than 550 guests at the meals.

The River offers free grocery shopping three days a week. Guests are allowed to shop once per week. Guests must provide current proof of address and household size when visiting the pantry. People without homes are also welcome to shop. Free, hot meals are offered every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. All are welcome to enjoy the meals as often as they would like. Free clothing and household supplies are available when the food pantry is open. Call 442-8815 for details.

The River is able to provide these amazing services because of the dozens of volunteers that offer their time to help staff the different sessions each week. Anyone wishing to volunteer can find the schedule and list of needs at volunteer@riverfoodpantry.org. There are opportunities for groups or individuals. Tasks include helping people shop, organizing food and clothing, and assisting with meals.

Donations are always appreciated and can be dropped off at the site weekdays from 9 am to 6 pm. Food, gently used clothing, gently used household items and, of course, monetary donations are needed. For every $10 donation, The River can provide $100 worth of food. Visit www.riverfoodpantry.org/donate to donate online.

The River Bakery is a job training program that offers sweet results. Not only does it provide vocational skills, but also connections to paid jobs. Their bakery items are available at several local locations, including Warner Park Community Center. The frosted cut-out cookies are my favorite.

The River is truly an amazing place. It brings help and hope to some of our most vulnerable neighbors throughout Dane County.