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ARDEN — In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, St. Barnabas Parish and its St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry have become a lifeline for the community, providing essential supplies and support to those affected by the storm.

With many residents facing displacement, food shortages, power outages and damaged infrastructure, the food pantry quickly expanded its operations to seven days a week. Volunteers from the parish and surrounding areas stepped up to help distribute food, water, diapers, and other necessities.

“The response that has come from St. Barnabas after this devastating hurricane has been truly inspirational,” said Father Adrian Porras, pastor of St. Barnabas. “We were not prepared for Helene, but that did not stop us, as a parish, from responding. My parish staff, members of Saint Vincent De Paul, the Knights of Columbus, and numerous parishioners were there to help people in need in so many ways. Along with the active charity, we, as a parish, have also turned to prayer. We have asked the Lord to help those who lost homes and businesses and prayed, especially, for the over 200 people who lost their lives in this terrible event.”

“I’m incredibly impressed by the outpouring of support from our community,” said Fred Petrazio, leader of the food pantry. “We received truckloads of essential supplies from Catholic Charities and generous donors across the country, demonstrating the power of compassion and solidarity.”

Father Porras echoed Petrazio's sentiments, noting that many families were financially unprepared for the disaster. "Our food pantry has been a critical resource for those in need, providing them with the basic necessities to get back on their feet." Volunteers, including entire families, have been working tirelessly from dawn to dusk to assist those affected by the storm.

“St. Barnabas Parish has been a beacon of hope for our community,” parishioner Cheryl Sarmiento said. “Their generosity and compassion have made a tremendous difference in the lives of countless people.”

The parish is engaged in a capital campaign to expand its campus and build a new Parish Life Center. This expansion will help ensure that St. Barnabas can continue to provide support and resources to the community, especially in the face of future emergencies.

"The Parish Life Center will be a vital asset to our parish and the broader community,” parishioner Steve Goodman said. “It will provide a much-needed space for our parishioners and community members to come together, recover, and receive support."

— Catholic News Herald

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