Every Wednesday morning, like clockwork, the Cornish Town Hall is transformed into a bustling community epicenter where food and friendship take center stage. Thanks to the dedication of a team of community leaders and their partnership with Willing Hands, the people of Cornish and surrounding communities have a consistent place to shop for healthy, nutrient-dense foods at no cost. This volunteer-run, pop-up food shelf offers more than just yogurt and leafy green vegetables; it’s a place brimming with love and care.
“Wednesday is the best day of my week,” said Brenda Jordan, a retired nurse, Willing Hands Board Member, and volunteer leader with the Cornish group. “We get 24 to 40 families a week. We see retirees on fixed incomes. We have a family with a young baby who just moved in with grandma. But everyone is so grateful. Last week, one of our regulars baked us cranberry muffins to thank us!” Brenda can tear up when talking about her work. She understands the struggle, as someone who experienced poverty as a young mother years ago.
The Cornish Food Shelf is sourced by both BJs surplus and Willing Hands’ weekly deliveries. According to Brenda, the foods provided by Willing Hands are “exceptional and reliable.” Brenda shared that people are often thrilled with the thoughtful, diverse selection of foods that arrive in Willing Hands driver Tim’s truck each week.
“Willing Hands provides good stuff, like beautiful pears, fresh parsley, and broccoli. These foods are SO expensive,” she exclaimed. In 2025, Willing Hands delivered 17,738 pounds of fresh food that their volunteer team distributed to members of the Cornish and surrounding communities.
According to Brenda, a recent newcomer entered and said, “We heard you can help us out with food because we’re struggling.” They were warmly welcomed in and invited to help themselves to the offerings. Before leaving, they said, “I don’t know what I’d do without this food.” The Cornish Food Shelf is a source of hope for all – the retirees, the newcomers, the volunteers, and the community at large.
