Vandalism Temporarily Closes Little Food Pantry In Vienna

VIENNA, VA — Recent vandalisms have prompted a Vienna church to close its little free food pantry and period pantry.

Emmaus United Church of Christ, located at 900 Maple Avenue East, announced the temporary closure of the pantries to make repairs. The church is also assessing how it can continue serving people in need.

Vienna Police took a report of vandalisms affecting the free pantries. Police believe the pantries were repeatedly tampered with and destroyed sometime between 12 p.m. on April 6 and 12 p.m. May 24.

The church is still accepting donations in the bin at the church doors. People in need served by the pantries are being directed to other local resources.

The little food pantry opened in fall 2020 after the Emmaus United Church of Christ's youth group received a grant. Since opening, the food pantry has gained support from members of social media groups like Vienna VA Foodies and the Town of Vienna, Virginia virtual community. Local residents have helped to stock the pantry, along with the church's youth group. Donations of non-perishable items are recommended.

In fall 2022, a group of teens added a free period pantry to the site, according to the Washington Post. The pantry aims to provide menstrual hygiene products to people who struggle to pay for them.

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