Letter to the Editor: Food Pantry In Need

To the Editor:

Despite reports of our improving economy, we do not see evidence of that at the Food Pantry.  In fact, the number of households served in the fiscal year just ended surpassed the previous year by 10%.

Summer poses a special challenge for many of the families who rely on our Food Pantry to help them make ends meet.  Children who receive free or reduced breakfast and lunch in school are now home for three meals a day.  This places an additional financial burden on those who are already struggling to put food on the table.

At the same time, food donations are typically at the lowest point of the year during the summer months.  With schools closed, church attendance down, businesses short-staffed and individuals and families in vacation mode, it is understandable that donations would be down. 

To make matters even worse, because of overall budget cuts, the funding and food available to us from government sources has decreased at this time when the need is greater than ever.

This triple whammy is making it very difficult to keep our shelves stocked for those who are struggling and depending on us to help feed their families.

That’s why I’m writing this letter now – to ask that you remember our neighbors in need during these lean summer months.  Anything you can do to help now is greatly needed and would be greatly appreciated.

Non-perishable food donations, within date, may be dropped off at the Food Pantry at 2 Merrimac Street in Woburn Mondays–Fridays between 9:00-5:00.  If you wish to make a monetary donation, please make your check out to Council of Social Concern Food Pantry.

Thank you,

Karen Colatrella, Food Pantry Director

Council of Social Concern

2 Merrimac Street

Woburn, MA  01801

 

Editor's note: Letters to the Editor are printed upon receipt; content is unedited and is the letter writer's opinion.