April 8, 2024 newsletter

 

Good morning all! I got off to a late start on the newsletter today, because Mike decided to stay home to watch the eclipse with me, and then we decided to go out to breakfast instead of going to the gym! You know, just in case there's any truth to the conspiracy theories and all the breakfast places in North America close forever ;-)

We had an amazing week, filled with people that we were either able to help directly with their food needs, or that we could refer to other people who could help them directly with other problems they were having. Some week soon, I'm going to have to do another recap of these stories like I did last year (names/a few details changed for privacy concerns, of course). In the past few weeks, we talked with our friends about housing, medical issues, suicide, and addiction. It's a tough world out there, folks...thank you for helping to support us in connecting our neighbors with what they need.

This coming Saturday is our monthly Craft Gathering! Our craft guru Debbie E will not be available, but the craft area will be open, from 10 to noon. All of the supplies are available for you to use, or you can bring your own project to work on in good company. There will be coffee and cookies, plus crafts and conversation!

Lin M and I went to the grand opening ceremony (in the snow!) for Merrimack Valley Food Bank's new location. It was an inspiring opportunity to see how far they have come, from operating out of the back of a van to a beautiful warehouse today. We saw many directors and volunteers there from various pantries and meal programs, as well as donors and dignitaries. It was a lot of fun, and it was also very moving to hear what a difference it's made in the Lowell and Lawrence region. Lin and I drove home feeling the glow!

Last week I mentioned that we are low on many items, basic items. March was REALLY busy. Thank you to those of you who sent funds to help us purchase the difference. If you can help us out with a few cans, just about everything on our complete list is needed. You may not think that a few cans help that much, but that's not true if enough people do it! I know that there are people who drop a few things into the Shop n' Save bin every week when they do their own grocery run, and it adds up and makes a difference, so thank you! If you don't have the list, please just email me back, and I'll send it to you. We'll be at the pantry on Wednesday from 10 to noon, Friday from 4 to 5:30, and Saturday from 9 to noon for drop-offs. And the bin is always available at Shop n' Save if those times don't suit. Please leave a note in the bag with your name so we know whom to thank.

Thank you for helping us to continue helping our community!