PARADISE, Calif. – A food pantry on the ridge is struggling to stay afloat. 

“We’re even running out of our canned goods. That’s pretty sad because we had a whole bunch, but we haven’t got any in for a long time,” Florence Cardy, a volunteer at Paradise Hope Center, said.

The pantry has all kinds of food, from milk to canned soups and bread ,but many shelves are empty.

75-year-old Cardy volunteers a few days a week at the Paradise Hope Center, but there hasn’t been much for her to stock recently.

“I just feel bad for the people because I can’t get it. I ask for it, but, you know, and I pray to God for it,” Cardy said. 

Sometimes, she even used her money to keep food on the shelves. 

“It’s bare in here, and this young lady is on a fixed income, and she has been taking money out of her own pocket,” Sharon Britt, a volunteer at the Paradise Hope Center, said.

Still, the demand is too much to keep up with for one person.

“I do get a few things, but as soon as I get it, it’s out,” Cardy said.

Faith and the center’s mission help keep her going. 

“That’s the only reason I’m here: because I know this is what God wants and helps me do it,” Cardy said.

Volunteers said the pantry used to be located just off of Skyway after the Camp Fire and was open five days a week, but the pantry has since had to downsize — open only two days a week and with fewer donations. 

“I have a lot of seniors that come here, and they’re sweethearts,” Cardy said.

Without help, the pantry could soon face a difficult decision about whether to close its doors for good.

Volunteers said they stay during challenging periods like this because they’re part of the community and see the need firsthand. The pantry is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for anyone who wants to donate.

The Paradise Hope Center is located at 6153 Center Street. Volunteer Sharon Britt said she is also happy to help pick up donations. Her phone number is (530) 562-5728.