For the first time in five weeks, we received more in food donations than we distributed (even if less than one-tenth of a ton more). Thanks to all who helped! However, we ran out of pasta before last Monday’s distribution, substituting macaroni and cheese to cover the shortfall. With the overall increase in clients, projected shortages have increased for the next weeks, even with fewer clients expected for the eptember 5th Labor Day distribution. More help needed!
We have insufficient of the following to cover next week: (1) “meals in a can” (stew, canned pasta, chili, etc.), (2) canned fruit, (3) pasta, (4) mac and cheese, and (5) pasta sauce. Additional shortages for the 5 September distribution: (6) dry, unsweetened cereal, (7) canned beans, and (8) dry rice/ beans. (For next Monday, we plan to substitute canned soup if “meals in a can” are inadequate, as seems likely.)
In addition, we need: diapers sizes newborn, 3, 5 and 6, baby wipes, and Pediasure, as well as adult unisex pullups size large. (Particular thanks to those who have located and donated formula – for yet another week, we had enough for all those needing it – after six months of severe shortages!)
Paper grocery bags (Trader Joe size or similar), 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 22 August, we received approximately 2.41 tons of non-perishable food. Food shortages noted are for the next two weeks, except other items mentioned afterwards which are short now.
Thanks to our donors, at current projected client totals, we now have enough canned vegetables for over four weeks, and canned soup and canned meat/fish for over three weeks. For the September 12 distribution everything else is short.
We gave out approximately 2.32 tons of non-perishable food, and about the same quantity of perishable food (bread and pastries, fresh vegetables and fruit, etc. – primarily donated by local stores) to 238 families in the week ending 22 August. As always, special thanks go to all those helping us to keep St. Martin’s Pantry in operation!
