AN ANNIVERSARY THANK YOU
In the midst of a pandemic, the Yarmouth Food Pantry quietly ushered in its 10-year anniversary without much fanfare. Kept busy with ever-changing COVID-19 safety precautions and guidelines, we prioritized operations, making sure that our fellow neighbors continued to receive food and support they needed. We are proud to say that, with some alterations to the food distribution process, we were able to remain open, thanks to our all-volunteer staff.
We’ve since reinstated our pre-pandemic distribution process, where clients are able to come into the pantry and shop for themselves. And, although we missed our 10th anniversary, we are very much looking forward to our 15-year anniversary in 2025. With the support of our donors and volunteers, we have become an important fixture in our community.
THE GIVING SEASON
A big thank you to the students of Station Avenue Elementary School is in order. The students held their annual Power of One food drive in November, and were able to help stock Yarmouth Food Pantry’s shelves just before Thanksgiving.
Every year, the Yarmouth Food Pantry partners with the Faith Formation of Saint Pius X Parish for the annual Secret Santa for Kids program. Clients with children under the age of 18 are invited to submit their children’s holiday gift request in November. The staff at Saint Pius X Church then distribute the wish lists to participating parishioners who shop for each child. Last December more than 100 children received holiday gifts. And, through the same partnership, more than 40 Easter baskets were distributed to local children last April.
We’d also like to thank the Yarmouth and Dennis Fire Departments for hosting their annual Homeless for the Holidays fundraiser and food drive that benefits Yarmouth Food Pantry and other local nonprofits. This year, we had help from the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School Football team, who volunteered to sort the incoming food donations from the event.
GRANT FOR NEW EQUIPMENT
The Bilezikian Family Foundation made a generous donation that allowed for the purchase of two commercial-grade upright freezers, which have increased our storage capacity and ability to feed our community.
