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Registry of Deeds, William P. O’Donnell, delivers food donations collected during the Registry of Deeds Annual Holiday Food Drive to Yianna Zicherman, Warehouse Manager of the Franklin Food Pantry.
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell recently delivered donations of food to the Franklin Food Pantry. The contributions came from the Registry staff, title examiners, and the public, who participated in the Registry’s Annual Holiday Food Drive which was held from November 14th to December 14th.
“On behalf of the many people who contributed to the Registry’s food drive, it is my pleasure to deliver these items to the Franklin Food Pantry," stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. "I am thankful that so many Norfolk County residents, including our employees and title examiners, took the opportunity to donate and to help those with hardships during the holiday season.”
The Registry collected more than 280 pounds of food during the drive, including items such as boxes of spaghetti, jars of sauce, canned soups, and fruits.
“Community donations are a big help and give us a good deal of variety that we wouldn’t otherwise have,” said Anne McGillis, Operations Director for the Franklin Food Pantry.
Last year, the Franklin Food Pantry helped more than 1,324 individuals in more than 650 households. Of those who received food assistance, more than one in four were children, and 36% were 65 or older.
“The food pantries throughout Norfolk County provide a valuable and much-needed resource for residents facing both long-term and temporary hardships, including children, families, and individuals, and I am grateful to be able to help in this small way,” said Register O’Donnell.
According to Project Bread, household food insecurity in Massachusetts has been fluctuating between 20 and 26%. Many Norfolk County food pantries have seen a significant increase in demand in the last year.
“It is a great feeling to be able to help the community and to know that other members of the community understand that there is a need for this,” said McGillis.
Franklin residents in need of assistance can register for services, schedule shopping appointments, or schedule home delivery by contacting the Franklin Food Pantry Client Services Coordinator at 508-528-3115.
Register O'Donnell concluded, “Hunger does not stop after the holidays it is a persistent issue affecting many of our neighbors. I encourage residents to consider dropping off food supplies at their local pantry. Pantries are requesting canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products. Dropping off a food donation at a local pantry can make a world of difference in helping a family in need.”
To see a list of Norfolk County food pantries, visit the Registry of Deeds website: https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/support/FAQs/where-are-the-norfolk-county-food-pantry-locations-142. Donations are needed all year long.
