For decades the Jefferson County Food Bank has run pretty smoothly with just volunteers. Over the years I have  known several of them. People who happily dedicate several hours a week to help feed those in need.

Patricia Hennessy was the first person hired as a paid Executive Board Director. This is $75,000 a year that could be spent on food and covering expenses.

Since she was hired in 2023 over 22 volunteers are no longer there. Several were shocked and confused when they were told to leave and escorted out by police officers. Others quit because they were outraged by the way their co- workers were being treated and being bullied themselves.

Almost all were heartbroken because they loved the camaraderie and being a part of such a positive and much-needed service to their community.

Why would anyone want to volunteer their time when they could suddenly be led off the premises by the police and told not to return? Usually, this was done with little or no explanation, no warning, and no second chances!

Sometimes they were told to leave because they were outspoken or made an unfavorable comment to the management.

Their tactics are shameful! Not all the board members are happy with Hennessy or her methods. She has created an environment that will certainly discourage new volunteers.

I can only imagine how frustrating and humiliating this would be, especially in a small community and in a place where people know you and in front of other volunteers who have worked alongside you for years.

I hope that when positions for the board and the Executive Director come up for election, changes will be made for the better.

Deb Abercrombie

Nordland