Fairfield officials, including state Reps. Tony Hwang (R-134), Brenda Kupchick (R-132) and Kim Fawcett (D-133); state Sen. John McKinney (R-28); Fairfield First Selectman Mike Tetreau; and Selectmen Cristin McCarthy Vahey and Kevin Kiley, are collaborating with Operation Hope to host a post-Thanksgiving Food Pantry Drive from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Town Hall Green, located in front of the Old Town Hall, 611 Old Post Road in Fairfield.
“I encourage residents to join in on the holiday spirit of helping others by donating to the food and coat drive to help our struggling neighbors," Tetreau said. "My hope is to fill the empty shelves of the Food Pantry so that citizens can have food on the table year-round and not just during the holidays.”
The group is collecting nonperishable canned and packaged goods, along with monetary donations. It is also collecting coats for the Bridgeport Rescue Mission "which helps those struggling to survive by addressing issues of hunger, homelessness and addiction," he said.
Operation Hope provides the volunteer-run and -operated food pantry that assists families in meeting their basic food needs and connects them with other resources to help eliminate their food insecurity.
“The timing couldn’t be better," said Carla Miklos, executive director of Operation Hope. "While so many of us are reflecting on our blessings this time of year, others among us are not as fortunate. Our food pantry has seen a drastic increase in visitors who are hungry. In fact, between September and October this year our number of meals served jumped from 10,000 to nearly 15,000!
"Operation Hope is here to take care of our neighbors who are struggling in silence, working hard to make ends meet, and we do so in a way that helps them maintain their dignity. Donations are critical—without them, we can’t meet the demand. We are grateful that this community recognizes that we all are at our best when everyone has access to the help they need."
McKinney urged residents to help out. “The need is great, and together we can make such a positive impact on people’s lives," he said. "Please spread the word, and we look forward to seeing you on Saturday.”
To volunteer, visit the Operation Hope website.
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