DENMARK, Wis. (WFRV) – For years, Ruby’s Pantry transformed a small-town church in Denmark into something far greater than a place of worship.
All Ruby’s Pantry locations closed after 20 years
At Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, the monthly food distribution event became a hub for connection, service and community support.
Since 2018, the church has hosted the program’s pop-up’s, drawing volunteers and families from Denmark and surrounding communities. On distribution days, the space would be converted into a full-scale food site, serving hundreds.
“It’s been a great asset for our community,” Pastor Andrew Zoerb said. “Not just in Denmark, but in all the surrounding areas.”
But organizers say the impact extended beyond food. Volunteers from churches, schools and local organizations worked side by side, building relationships across generations.
“For those of us volunteering, it was the camaraderie,” Zoerb said. “Having kids, elders and people from different groups come together for one common purpose.”
That sense of unity was especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when uncertainty and isolation were widespread. Demand surged as families faced food insecurity.
“I think there was a large fear of where people were going to get their groceries,” volunteer Ginger Zoerb said. “The line went all the way through town and up the hill. That’s my favorite memory, everyone coming together to help each other in a very challenging time.”
Now, that chapter is coming to a close.
Ruby’s Pantry recently announced it is ending operations immediately after 20 years of service across its locations, leaving volunteers and community members with a mix of gratitude and sorrow.
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“The initial reaction was just feeling sorrow,” Pastor Zoerb said. “But, we are very grateful for all of the connections we’ve made. That’s the part we will miss the most.”
While the food distributions have ended, those involved say the spirit of community built inside the church walls will endure.
