UCP’s Food Pantry Serves People with Disabilities in Eastern CT.

Monday November 25, Norwich CT: One year ago, UCP of Eastern Connecticut opened Bette’s Bounty, a food pantry dedicated to addressing food insecurity and the unique challenges confronting people with disabilities in our community. A key point of distinction of the Food Pantry is that it serves only people with disabilities and their families and at the same time, it offers individuals with disabilities job skills.

“There’s a pressing need to address the ongoing and worsening challenges of food insecurity among individuals with disabilities and their families, and UCP is committed to providing a solution,” said Jennifer Keatley, Executive Director of UCP.

To that end, the Food Pantry has grown exponentially over the past year to serve 100s of families in need. It has also strengthened existing partnerships and formed new ones to expand its reach. Through the generosity of partners like the Gemma E. Moran United Way Labor Food Center the Pantry has grown rapidly to address the uptick in demand. UCP receives over 80% of its non-perishable food donations from this generous organization.

A new partnership with Hunts Brook Farm, offered a one-time stipend, through an agricultural grant, to UCP’s participants and their families to visit the farm to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. The owner, Rob Schacht, also provides food donations to the pantry.

The Pantry’s newest partner, Big Y, in both Groton and Old Saybrook, donates baked goods and breads to the Pantry on a weekly basis. Through UCP’s partnerships with area housing authorities, UCP donates part of Big Y’s donations to others in need, like to the elderly and people with disabilities, who don’t have regular access to food or transportation.

At a ceremony earlier this year, UCP was presented an Official Citation from the General Assembly from State Representative Kathleen McCarty. Also in attendance were Dina Sears-Graves, CEO of the United Way Southeastern CT and UCP leadership, Julie Way, Field Representative from the office of Congressman Joe Courtney, 2nd District, CT, Anne Stockton, Vice President, Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center , Scott Umbel, United Way Vice President of Community Impact, UCP staff, board members and guests.

About UCP’s Food Pantry

The pantry is located at 42 Norwich Road in Quaker Hill. (Click here for directions)

Open Monday – Friday 10:00am to 4:00pm by appointment. To schedule an appointment call 860.968.3663 (860-968-FOOD) or 860-288-9528 (Joanna Marrero). If you would like to set up a food collection, whether you own a business or want to host a home collection, call us for more information. UCP is currently taking food donations for the following items: peanut butter, pasta, rice canned goods including soups, fruit, vegetables, stew, canned fish and beans.

About UCP of Eastern Connecticut

UCP of Eastern Connecticut is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of people with disabilities. With a strong belief in inclusivity and empowerment, UCP of Eastern CT provides a variety of services and programs that help individuals with disabilities reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives at home, in school and at work. UCP is a United Way Member Agency partner committed to the mission of providing nourishment, hope and support to those in need.