A front-yard food pantry that has served local residents over the past several weeks has shut down a bit earlier than planned, but the effort behind it is far from finished.

The temporary pantry, located at 1850 Teague Lane, was forced to close after strong winds over the weekend caused damage to the setup. Organizer April Knapp, owner of Sunshine Creations and Special Events, said the pantry had already gone through two tents and a metal shed since opening.

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“Unfortunately, we just can not sustain in this manner,” Knapp said in a social media update. Any remaining food was placed on a pallet at the site for anyone who needs it.

While the pantry chapter is wrapping up, Knapp’s focus has shifted fully to the Kernersville Christmas Toy Blessings Drive — and the need is urgent.

According to Knapp, dozens of children in the community are still waiting to be sponsored with Christmas gifts. A total of 50 children have submitted wish lists, many of which are now live through Sunshine Creations’ Amazon storefront.

“Dozens of children in our community are still waiting to be sponsored this Christmas,” Knapp said. “By adopting a child, donating a gift, or contributing funds, local families and businesses can help ensure no child wakes up without a gift on Christmas morning.”

Community members can help in several ways. Donors may “adopt” a child by selecting items directly from that child’s wish list, purchase toys independently and drop them off, or make a monetary contribution to help fill gaps where needed. Any commissions earned through the Amazon storefront will be reinvested into the effort.

Toy drop-offs and donations are being accepted at 1850 Teague Lane, with tables set up in the driveway. Knapp emphasized that donors are welcome to pull up closer to the house to make drop-offs. All donated toys should be new and unwrapped.

Donations will be accepted through Thursday. More information, including wish lists and updates on the drive, can be found on the Sunshine Creations and Special Events Facebook page.

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