The nonprofit Agape agency, which operates a food pantry and other poverty assistance programs in Warrenton, is receiving a $4,000 donation thanks to the nonprofit’s affiliation with a local insurance broker.

The donation was awarded thanks to a nomination from Brian Gleize, a broker with Scott Agency in Warrenton. Gleize said one of the insurance providers his firm works with, West Bend Insurance, has annual donation awards that are meant to encourage brokers to get involved in local community nonprofits.

Agape was chosen for the award, the Spirit of Silver Lining Award, because of its various programs aiding thousands of poor people in the area, and because Gleize is a board member and dedicated fundraising volunteer for the nonprofit.

Gleize commented that becoming involved with Agape has opened his eyes to the need in the community, and the importance of having community leaders step up to help fill that need.

“I would issue a challenge to the local community leaders and business owners to get involved in a local nonprofit organization that you’re passionate about and just participate,” Gleize said.

Agape Executive Director Michelle Bernth said the agency will be able to apply the $4,000 donation to any future needs as they arise. She commented that the agency appreciates any time it receives flexible funding that isn’t tied down to a particular use.

“This was a really nice surprise for us to have that additional money come in,” Bernth commented. “Funding like this is incredibly valuable to us, because we can use it where we have the most need at any given time. ... It’s really important to us to be good stewards with our dollars, that we’re making the most effective decisions with that money to be able to create the biggest impact in the community.”

For more information about the services that Agape provides, go online to agapemo.org, or call 636-456-4645.