The outpouring of support Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry recently received from the community was astounding! When we learned that our turkey allocation for Thanksgiving from the Greater Boston Food Bank was going to be cut in half, we were more than a little concerned. We should have known that the community would come through for us, just as they always do!
We issued a plea for turkey donations, and what we received was beyond our wildest dreams. More than 800 turkeys were donated, more than enough to feed our neighbors who visited the pantry during our Thanksgiving dinner distribution. The turkeys, along with all of the fixings for dinner, were donated by many area businesses, houses of worship, schools, scout troops, and civic groups both within our service area and beyond. We are very grateful for their support. What really touched me, however, was that the majority of our donations were received from individuals and families. This truly exemplifies what the pantry is all about: lifting and feeding our neighbors. When we each give a little, it makes a huge difference!
We are thankful to New England Apple Products Co. in Leominster for contributing cider for our clients, Kimball Farm of Westford for storing our turkeys, Red Tail Golf Club for hosting a “turkey shoot” to benefit the pantry, and Dunkin’ Donuts of Ayer and Sorrento’s of Harvard for providing refreshments for our volunteers. To everyone who rose to the occasion, our sincere thanks. You heard our plea, and you took time to help so that others could enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. Your generosity truly made a difference!
Patricia A. Stern, executive director
Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry
