The food pantry at the Salvation Army of Bowling Green on West Main Avenue is running low on food just as the holiday rush begins, WBKO reported this week. The organization first flagged the empty shelves in a Facebook post, according to a WBKO report from Nov. 6, and it is asking neighbors to help restock.
Joshua Keaton, the Bowling Green Salvation Army's commanding officer, told WBKO on Nov. 9 that the need remains high and that the pantry is serving about 30 to 45 people a day. "During the holiday season the need, like, it amplifies twice as much," Keaton said, according to WBKO.
What the Pantry Needs
According to WBKO, the Salvation Army's list of most-needed items includes:
- Canned vegetables and fruits
- Canned meats
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Pasta and sauce
- Rice and dried beans
- Cereal and oatmeal
- Macaroni and cheese
- Canned soups
- Boxed meals
Donations must be unopened and not expired, WBKO reported.
How to Donate or Get Help
- Drop-off: Donations are accepted at 400 W. Main Ave., according to WBKO.
- Phone: WBKO lists the Salvation Army's number as (270) 843-3485. Call ahead for drop-off times or pantry hours, since they weren't in the reports.
- Online: WBKO directs readers to salvationarmyusa.org/ky/bowling-green for more information.
If your family needs food help, start with that phone number. Pantry schedules can change, especially around the holidays, so check before you go.
Holiday Giving Starts Now
The pantry appeal comes as the Salvation Army's Christmas programs get going in Bowling Green. According to an Oct. 27 WBKO report:
- Angel Tree: In-store Angel Tree adoption begins Saturday, Nov. 14. An online Walmart registry is already open if you want to buy gifts before then. Check with the Salvation Army for this year's Angel Tree locations.
- Virtual Red Kettle: Donations to the local Virtual Red Kettle are already open, and WBKO reports that the money stays in Bowling Green to support the Salvation Army's work here all year. The donation link is in WBKO's story.
Why It Matters Here
By Keaton's count, as many as 45 people a day are coming to the pantry on West Main for food, according to WBKO. And it's the same organization running Angel Tree this season. If you're already cleaning out the pantry or shopping for Thanksgiving, a few extra jars of peanut butter or boxes of cereal will help.
Sources
- WBKO, Nov. 9, 2026: Keaton's comments, daily numbers, donation rules, drop-off address and contact details
- WBKO, Nov. 6, 2026: the full list of most-needed items
- WBKO, Oct. 27, 2026: Angel Tree and Virtual Red Kettle details
