Middlebury Food Pantry surpasses fundraising goal with second annual 'Padlocked in the Pantry'

Middlebury Food Pantry

MIDDLEBURY, Ind. -- The Middlebury Food Pantry announced they surpassed their fundraising goal during the second annual "Padlocked in the Pantry" on Friday, Aug. 30, where Executive Director Pam Bingaman was locked in the pantry until she raised at least $30,000 while livestreaming on the pantry's Facebook page.

Pantry officials say thanks to the generosity of the community, the final amount raised reached $33,000.

The goal was to raise $30,000 to support the non-profit's mission of providing food and essentials to local families in need.

Officials say the level of support exceeded expectations, raising the full amount in only four and a half hours.

“We are overwhelmed by the support we received today,” said Bingaman. “The community really came together to surpass our goal. These funds will go a long way in helping us continue to serve those in need in Middlebury and the surrounding areas.”

Donations came in from individuals, businesses, and local organizations.

Officials say the live broadcast allowed donors to see real-time updates and hear stories of the impact their contributions would make.