Food Pantry lists items needed to "Feed the 5,000"

There are a variety of needs expressed by families who utilize the Manchester CRC food pantry. Those who are considering a donation to the food pantry this winter are asked to be aware of the most-requested items, although all items are welcomed at any time.

Several local congregations are working on a special mission focus for the upcoming season of Lent, called "Feeding the 5,000."

The Manchester Community Resource Center CRC) Food Pantry is but one of the recipient organizations for this project and CRC Director Laura Seyfried has kindly provided a list of some of the most needed and most-requested food and non-food items that can be used by families in need that utilize the local food pantry.

Seyfried notes that this list is specific to the CRC Food Pantry and that other organizations may have different needs. Not only local faith groups but also individuals considering donations during the upcoming season may be interested in purchasing items for families in need.

"We are thankful for all of the donations we receive, and we respect the choices each congregation makes for their outreach projects," she said.

Despite many families having access to Bridge Card (also known as food stamps), many non-food items are not able to be purchased with these benefits. In addition, some families with a legitimate need may not qualify for Bridge Card assistance or may not yet have qualified.

Following is a suggested list of products that many families don’t have access to on a regular basis.

Personal care items, such as shampoo and conditioner, liquid hand soap, toothpaste, lirst aid items, combs or hair brushes, and cotton swabs;

Cleaning supplies like laundry detergent, fabric softener, dish soap, white vinegar, bathroom cleaner, kitchen cleanser, glass cleaner, and toilet bowl cleaner;

Paper goods including facial tissue, toilet tissue, and paper towels;

Baby products, such as disposable diapers (variety of sizes) and baby wipes;

Specialty foods including sugar-free items for diabetics;

Baking supplies such as baking soda, baking powder, salt, spices, shortening, or cooking oil;

Condiments like ketchup and mustard;

Beverages like dry coffee and tea packets.

Canned and dry food goods donated to the pantry should be unopened and in their original packaging with labels, in good condition (no
dents, bulging or rust) and within six months of the “sell by” or “use by” date.

Thank you for your contributions in every season of the year!

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.