Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell recently delivered donations of food to Needham Community Council’s Food Pantry (NCCFP). The contributions came from the Registry staff, title examiners, and the public, who participated in the Registry’s Annual Holiday Food Drive which was held from November 14th to December 13th.
"On behalf of the many people who contributed to the Registry’s food drive, it is my pleasure to deliver these items to the Needham Community Council Food Pantry," stated Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell "I am thankful that so many Norfolk County residents, including our employees and title examiners, took the opportunity to donate and to help those with hardships during the holiday season."
The registry collected items such as boxes of spaghetti, jars of sauce, canned soups, paper goods, fruits, and cleaning and paper products, several of which are in high demand, especially during the winter season.
"Local community support from residence, business and local organizations is crucial to our ability to help serve individuals and families of Needham who may need our support," said Sandra Robinson, Executive Director for Needham Community Council.
Needham Community Council’s food pantry provides more than 250 Needham households with fresh fruits and vegetables, dry goods, dairy, meats, & personal care products. The food pantry was visited 7074 last year.
"I urge residents to consider dropping off supplies at their local pantries. Beside food, many pantries are requesting toiletries and paper products," said O’Donnell." Dropping off a donation at your local food pantry can make a world of difference to a struggling family, especially those trying to manage a budget that includes higher food and utility costs."
Today, according to the latest Project Bread statistics, 18% of households in Massachusetts are considered food insecure. Furthermore, 22% of children in the state are also considered food insecure. The increasing cost of housing and food are likely factors that contribute to the rising rates of food insecurity.
“It’s important for people to know that local food pantries are in need of donations all calendar year,” said Robinson “We do several community projects throughout the year, including providing free holiday dinners to Needham residents on Thanksgiving and Christmas.”
According to the United States Bureau of Labor and Statistics, home food prices rose 12.7% while wages only grew 5.1%, netting more than a 7.6% deficit at the grocery store.
The Needham Community Council food pantry is located at 570 Hillside Avenue in Needham.
"I hope that by working together as a community to collect these donations, we have made a difference in the lives of individuals and families struggling with higher than average grocery costs, especially in the winter months when the cost of fuel can play havoc on a person’s budget.
