By Kate Bartlett
The 18th Street Panty, located in Jamestown, is available to help those in need in any season, but
especially during these long winter months. Diana Scott opened her pantry 2 years ago, but has been
helping organize donations in the area for many years.
Diana was raised with a generous spirit for giving.
“My parents always stepped in to help anytime,’ explains Diana. “Every year my parents would help out a number of families during the holiday season. We shopped for food and gifts; my parents were very generous, purchased buying everything on their list. They made a point to hand deliver each gift. I learned early the spirit of giving from my parents and how to help others.”
For many years, Diana was involved in feeding the community with her catering business, Studio D
Catering. She made it an annual tradition to deliver meals to the Police Station, Fire Department, and
UCAN City Mission on Thanksgiving. Diana recently retired in July, and sold Studio D which now giving
more time to be involved in her community mission: to feed and help those in need.
After retiring, Diana began cooking meals every Sunday for the ROME Overnight Code Blue Warming
Center, located at 917 Washington Street.
“I met with the director and realized the need for a hot meal to be provided, as the soup kitchen is closed on Sunday.” Diana cooks a complete meal at home in her kitchen, and brings it to the warming center every week.
Diana began to realize the true need to do more. “People were very appreciative of the meal, and it
made me want to do more.” She put up a post on her Facebook Page, with a great response.
“People want to help, but they don’t know where to start,” explains Diana. “I provide a platform for people to get involved; there is so much need. Everyone makes a difference.”
Recently, Diana invested in a commercial soup pot for the Warming Center which gives the community
of volunteer the ability to donate homemade soup to Warming Center. “We’re so grateful to have had
a soup prepared almost every day of the week recently by generous members of the community,” says
Diana. “Anyone can make a soup, just reach out and we’ll help coordinate.” This tradition dates back to
the Great Depression, and is how Soup Kitchens got their name.
As a former caterer, Diana still has contacts in the community, and receives donations of food leftover
from events. “I repurpose the leftovers into fresh, hot meals. It’s amazing how much food waste is
generated sometimes; I’ll happily coordinate a pickup to get food to those in need.”
Diana has been running a food pantry in her front yard for 2 years. Recently, the 18th Street Pantry is
restocked 3 times day due to the rising need in the area. The pantry has grown over the past 2 years,
and now, due to generous donations from the community, fills her side porch.
“The pantry is open to any and all who are in need, and we accept donations anytime.” Please place donations either in the pantry or in the tote on the front porch.
The need in the area has grown, and Diana was recently approached by displaced mothers in need of
assistance. Diana was able to provide clothing and furniture donations to help furnish homes, and help
fulfill a few basic needs.
“One thing has led to another,” explains Diana. “We do our best to help our community. It’s become my full-time job, but it is much needed. Diana has been able to expand her reach, and has received
donations from out of state. “The platform keeps people connected, and helps us reach those who have
moved away, but still have connections to our area.”
Diana is grateful for the community support. “I couldn’t do it without the support of the community,”
explains Diana.
“It’s been incredible the amount of support. It’s a team effort, and we all can make a difference. I encourage everyone to take a moment to talk with someone who is homeless, or in need. It makes all the difference. I encourage everyone to open their hearts, especially this time of year. ”
Through her efforts, Diana has realized the importance of raising awareness of those in need, and how
people can help. “It’s incredible the amount of need these days. People just aren’t aware and don’t’
realize what they can do to help.” Awareness has increased, according to Diana, due to the recent crisis
of SNAP benefits being cut, but her goal is to continue to raise awareness and organize donations to help
any and all in need.
“Anyone and everyone can make a difference, with their time and/or a donation. Anything is
appreciated.” Join and follow Diana Scott on Facebook. Food and clothing donations are always
welcomed and can be dropped off at the 18th Street Pantry, located at 20 18th Street. Anyone not on
Facebook can call 716-640-6035 or Deelee1959@gmail.com.