Meramec Community Mission — Local services in Sullivan

We just visited for the first time in a long time, because we try to only visit when we really need help, to save the food for those who need it more. So I will admit, we were arriving 25 minutes to close, but that's because my boyfriend was offered a day of work for the first time in 4 days (which he couldn't turn down), and got off work at 3:25. So we rushed there as fast as possible. When we arrived the older gal working there was nothing but rude. She had a raised tone of voice the whole time, and asked if we've visited before. We then told her that we haven't in quite a while. She asked my name and entered it in the computer and screamed, "did you bring a piece of mail?" I told her I wasn't aware I needed to, I thought I was already in there system from visiting in the past. She said, "if you've been here, then you would've known you needed to bring a piece of mail!" She then proceeds to scream at me saying she's been up all day and she's tired. This is the first time in a long time I've needed help and I've never been to a food pantry that's made me feel like such a burden before. I'm very appalled at the way my family and I were not only treated, but turned down and sent back home empty handed to starve! Thanks Meramec Community Mission. This is sad because I donate whenever I can usually, and know now to donate to an organization that actually helps all members of the...

I never thought I would be in a position to need help, and I was terrified to go in and ask for help, for fear of being judged or looked down at. I was treated with respect and dignity. Everyone was kind and they tried to put everyone at ease. Everyone was greeted with a "hello! Welcome!" And a smile. The thrift store had a lot of items that I found for my home that were in great condition. Again, I was greeted with a hello and if I had questions, they were answered...

I'm not sure what has happened here lately, but in the past few months, the women running the resale shop have taken a huge dive in customer service, they are SO RUDE. If you ask a question, they snap at you, when I say hi when I walk in, I'm greeted with a sneer. This is a wonderful organization and it is sad to see it...