But these days, due to a holdup in Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) funding, and a lack of donations from locals, the cupboards of the food pantry at Sterling House are bare.
On average, the Sterling House feeds more than 7,123 people a year, or in other words, they give away some 57,561 pounds of food to those in need, said Ray O'Donnell, resource connection director for the center.
"It's always slow in the summer, but this year with the holdup in FEMA funding we could really use some help," O'Donnell said.
The food goes to wide array of people from families with small children to single individuals and seniors on a budget.
To make it through until they receive their funding, the center is asking the public for help so no one has to go hungry.
O'Donnell said they need just about everything, but especially peanut butter, ravioli, fruit cocktail, Rice a Roni, mac & cheese, pasta sauce, tuna, breads and instant potatoes. Fresh fruit and vegetables are always a big favorite too.
Sterling House is a multi-service community center that has been a mecca for young and old. It is dedicated to serving all ages from the toddler to the senior adult and provides affordable social, educational and recreational activities including everything from summer camps for kids to social events for seniors and much more.
Donations can be brought to Sterling House and put in the bin outside of the main office. The center is located at 2283 Main St. To donate money, call 203-378-2606.
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