'Padlocked in the Pantry' fundraiser at Middlebury Food Pantry Friday

MIDDLEBURY, Ind. -- The Middlebury Food Pantry announced they will hold their second annual "Padlocked in the Pantry" fundraiser on Friday, starting at noon.

Pantry officials will lock Executive Director Pam Bingaman inside the pantry starting at noon, where she won't be allowed to leave until she reaches the pantry’s fundraising goal of $25,000.

Bingaman will broadcast live on the pantry’s Facebook page during the event, and she could be in there all weekend if the goal isn’t met.

Pantry officials say 2024 has been a record-breaking year for them, with a 37 percent increase in need since last year.

Officials say on one recent Saturday, they provided food for 1,200 people in a few hours.

Community members are encouraged to tune into the pantry's Facebook page and consider donating to support the cause.

Donations can be made online or in person at the pantry starting at noon Friday.

The pantry is located at 13307 C.R.16.