S.O.S.

Written By Carol McLeod Design

Friends,

We are beginning a rapid response effort to help those affected by the pending loss of SNAP (Food Stamps) benefits and lost income due to the government shut down. We ask your help.

For 65 years, the Cape Cod Council of Churches has gathered congregations and other partners to meet our community’s needs. We do so through our six areas of ministry; and we do so through special initiatives during times of particular want, like now.

Please donate as you are able to our Hands of Hope Food Pantry, located at 49 Route 28, West Harwich Monday–Friday between 1-3pm. All foods will be distributed at the Pantry which serves our neighbors from Sandwich/Mashpee through Harwich, or will go to our Faith Family Kitchen, which serves free dinners (up to 9 meals per week per guest from our location on Bearse’s Way in Hyannis) to all in need.

Nonperishable food may also be dropped off at our new Council (and A Baby Center) headquarters at 232 Main St Hyannis, Mon–Thursday between 10 am–12:30pm. A third drop off location is at First Lutheran Church, West Barnstable, 1663A Rte. 6A in the Fellowship Hall during the following hours: Mon, Tues and Thurs 9:30 – 1:30. Wed 10–3:00 and 5:30–7:00pm and Sunday 9–11am.

This special collection will take place at least until Nov. 13–longer if the shutdown continues.

Requested items include:

  • Nutritious packaged non perishable foods such as soups

  • Cereal

  • Rice

  • Beans

  • Durable fruits (clementines, grapes, oranges, apples, plantains)

  • Durable produce (carrots, onions, potatoes, sweet potatoes, celery)

  • Individual snack items (applesauce, granola bars, packaged fruits)

  • Grocery store gift cards to purchase dairy/meats/produce/etc.

This shutdown threatens the food security of over one million folks in Massachusetts, including 337,000 children. Across our country about 12% of the population utilize SNAP benefits to place food on the table. Note that last year, the Council served 11,401 individuals at the Food Pantry and 913 at the Kitchen. This happened without the extra strain of the shutdown.

The scope of need is great. The compassionate and effective response is great–thanks to you!

 

Peace,
Edye Nesmith 
Executive Director

Carol McLeod Design https://orangem.com
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