“Thanksgiving Basket Program” Seeks Donations for Bellingham Residents
By Lyn MacLean
Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry, located at the Saint Blaise Catholic Church in Bellingham, stands behind the name’s origin. The Loaves & Fishes name is derived from the Bible by referencing taking a small number of fish and bread and making many to feed a large community.
Providing food for many residents is precisely the intent of the annual Thanksgiving Baskets Program. Volunteers assemble food baskets that focus on all the traditional cuisine items commonly shared as a bountiful feast with family on Thanksgiving Day. This community outreach needs local donations to meet household needs.
Most of the baskets are donated to those who are part of the weekly food pantry program. Last year, the pantry provided 140 households with a holiday meal basket. This year, they expect close to 200 baskets will be needed.
The pantry is counting on community donations to meet increasing demands. Giving to help others is rewarding and appreciated. Can you find it in your heart to provide donation items listed below?
Food items requested are:
• Dry Goods: Stuffing, pie crusts, dessert mixes
• Canned Goods : Gravy, cranberry sauce, fruit, vegetables, pumpkin, pie filling
• Hardy Fresh Vegetables: White & Sweet potatoes, onions, carrots, various types of squash
• Hardy Fruit: Apples
• Grocery Store Gift cards: $10 or $15 increments to allow recipients to purchase a turkey.
DONATION DROP-OFF DAY: Monday, November 18 from 6 – 8 p.m.
Saint Blaise Catholic Church
1158 South Main Street, Bellingham, MA
BASKET DISTRIBUTION DAY:
Tuesday, November 19 (This allows time for households to purchase a turkey in time for Thanksgiving Day)
If you are a Bellingham resident in need of a basket, you can contact Susan Durkin, the Director of Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry at [email protected]