The Community Food Pantry is celebrating its 25th anniversary while its director Rosalee Thompson is celebrating her 25 years at the helm of the project.

Thompson became involved with the project when it was in its beginning stages. In 1987, several local churches like the First Presbyterian Church and Bethlehem Baptist Church created the food pantry to serve as a centralized pantry for the community.

Thompson was invited by her friend Evelyn Jones, who was also involved in initiating the project, to a meeting.

"I didn't have anything to do right then, so I went with her," said Thompson.

When the pantry opened 25 years ago, Thompson was hired to be the pantry's director.

"She's been there since day one," said Rev. Billy Wade of the First Presbyterian Church.

Thompson says that the food pantry feeds 15 to 30 families per week which can sometimes put a strain on the pantry.

"You just say a little prayer that you have enough to make the rounds," she said.

Despite the difficulties of keeping the pantry stocked, Thompson loves her job.

"It keeps me busy," she said. "I'll be there [until] I can't."

Wade said that Thompson has been a valuable asset to the pantry.

"She really has been the constant presence the whole time," said Wade. "She knows so many people throughout the community."

The Community Food Pantry provides food to eligible needy families in the Covington area. The pantry was housed in the First Presbyterian Church in downtown Covington for many years before it was moved to next door to FaithWorks.

The Food Pantry operates on monetary and food donations and volunteers. Without that help, the Food Pantry would not be able to operate said Thompson.

"I thank all the ones that helped along the way," said Thompson.

The Community Food Pantry has been supported by many local churches, civic groups, schools, Boy Scout troops, the United Way, Snapping Shoals and General Mills. It operates as a part of the Newton County Ministers' Union.