Updated: Aug 18, 2022
Overall food reserves have dropped to the lowest since the beginning of the Pandemic, even as client numbers for this time of year have risen to the fourth-highest of our 30 years of operation.
We have insufficient of the following to cover next week: (1) dry, unsweetened cereal and (2) canned fruit. Additional shortages for the 8 August distribution: (3) pasta sauce, (4) pasta, (5) canned beans, and (6) “meals in a can” (stew, canned pasta, chili, etc.). (We continue to reduce distribution of canned soup to balance lower donations – we need more to resume giving out normal quantities.
In addition, we need: baby formula equivalents/substitutes for US-produced Similac Blue and Similac Orange (Sensitive). (Particular thanks to those who are locating and donating imported formula – We had enough for those needing it this week – for the first time since February!) We also need diapers sizes 5 and 6, baby wipes, and Pediasure, as well as Ensure for adults, and adult unisex pullups sizes small, medium and large.
Paper grocery bags (Trader Joe size or similar) continue in short supply. Can you help? Plastic newspaper bags and plastic grocery bags are always needed. Plastic 12-egg cartons are very much needed. Other 12 or 6 unit containers are useful as back-ups. (18 and 24-egg containers are too large for our distribution).
Over the week ending at close of business 25 July, we received approximately 1.54 tons of non-perishable food. Shortages noted are for the next two weeks, except baby formula and other items mentioned afterwards are short now.
Over the week ending at close of business 25 July, we received approximately 1.54 tons of non-perishable food. Shortages noted are for the next two weeks, except baby formula and other items mentioned afterwards are short now
We gave out approximately 2.24 tons of non-perishable food, and rather more perishable food (bread and pastries, fresh vegetables and fruit, etc. – primarily donated by local stores) to 230 families in the week ending 1 August. As always, special thanks go to all those helping us to keep St. Martin’s Pantry in operation!
