NATCHEZ — Empty shelves and empty pockets forced the Natchez Food Pantry to close its doors March 31.

Catholic Charities Director Martha Mitternight announced the pantry’s closing in February, citing poor economic conditions. The pantry served more than 400 families monthly from its warehouse on North Shields Lane.

Mitternight said in a previous report the pantry’s annual operating budget was $50,000, which comes from grants and community donations. The budget covered the salary of former part-time director, Tommy Jackson, as well as labor and overhead costs.

Due to sparse donations, the pantry was left with a $17,000 deficit.

Area churches are prepared to fill the void left by the Natchez Food Pantry, including the 61 South Church of Christ, No. 2 Beau Pre Road, Pilgrim Baptist Church, 117 Pilgrim Blvd., and Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church, 607 1/2 Madison St.

The 61 South Church of Christ’s food distribution is every Tuesday from 9 to 11 a.m., while Pilgrim Baptist Church’s food distribution is every Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church’s food distribution is either Tuesdays or Wednesdays from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Distribution depends on when non-perishable food items are delivered to the church.