Shelli and Bart Selby founded Jacob’s Cupboard in September 2010 to honour their son Jacob, a 2004 Yukon High School graduate who died unexpectedly. Since 2014, the pantry has served people in need at West Metro Community Church on West Main.

Members of the Ladies Library Club welcomed Shelli Selby as their guest speaker for the Nov. 13 tea at the Yukon library. Guests joined club members to listen to her presentation while enjoying tea and treats. She explained that many people feel humbled when asking for help, so the pantry is designed to offer dignity. She said their goal is to share love and provide food to anyone who needs it, and they never want to turn anyone away.

Selby, a former mayor and current Ward 2 city council member until next May, shared that Jacob had always enjoyed helping others. She recalled how he believed people should give without judging how help is used.

Jacob’s Cupboard receives no government funding and relies entirely on donated food and monetary gifts. Ladies Library Club members, including retired Yukon librarians Sue Kilmer and Sara Schieman, contributed to the pantry, noting how many residents are struggling in the current economy. Many visitors to the cupboard are working individuals who live paycheck to paycheck but do not qualify for federal assistance.

The pantry hosts two annual “moxie drives” to mark Jacob’s birthday and the day he passed, celebrating the spirit he was known for. Operated completely by volunteers, the pantry depends on Bart Selby to handle grocery shopping and prepare food bags.

Jacob’s Cupboard is open Wednesdays from 6 to 7 p.m., a time chosen to complement downtown’s other pantry, Compassionate Sharing. Pickup is also available by appointment, and those wishing to support the pantry may text 405 684 1381.

Source: Yukon Progress Newspaper