STAUNTON - The Staunton Food Pantry coordinator expressed gratitude for a $2,000 grant the agency received from money collected in Operation Rice Bowl. One-fourth of the monies collected from Rice Bowl boxes during the Lenten season go to support local hunger-relief programs.

"With utilities, fuel, housing and food costs soaring, many families are turning to food banks and pantries for help with their grocery needs," said Carol Sharp, food pantry coordinator. "With this grant, we will be able to help the increasing numbers seeking the pantry's assistance who are not only in Staunton, but in its surrounding communities."

Sharp thanked Catholic Relief Services and everyone in the Springfield diocese who contributed to Operation Rice Bowl, which helped co-fund the pantry's efforts.