On Monday morning, September 28th, Interfaith Social Services’ food pantry clients were greeted by some familiar faces as they collected groceries for their families. Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch and Braintree Mayor Joseph Sullivan rolled up their sleeves dishing out emergency food.
Volunteers have been assisting South Shore residents through Interfaith’s food pantry for four decades. To commemorate the 40th anniversary of Interfaith’s Food Pantry the mayors brought more than citations to recognize Interfaith’s work, they brought a desire to serve. The Mayors assembled food orders for clients, sorted donations and toured the sorting area for Interfaith’s upcoming Halloween Costume distribution.
“The mayors’ visit today recognizes the incredible efforts that their constituents make by volunteering within our programs,” said Interfaith’s executive director Rick Doane. “Last year over 800 local residents volunteered here at Interfaith, making it possible for us to serve the thousands of families who turn to us for assistance. We are so grateful that the Mayors could join with us to help highlight the need that exists within our community.”
Interfaith Social Services operates one of the largest emergency food programs in Greater Boston. Our programs are a safety net for thousands of children and families from the South Shore in need of mental health counseling, food, budget counseling, emergency assistance and clothing.
“Especially after the Pope’s recent visit and his dedication to serving the less fortunate, every day in every way we should commit ourselves to ending hunger in our communities and throughout the Country” said Mayor Joseph C. Sullivan. “It is an effort we must win.” Not only did Mayor Sullivan serve food at Interfaith’s Food Pantry, his office recently organized a fundraiser to purchase Halloween costumes for the children served by Interfaith Social Services.
“Hopefully the mayors’ presence today helps overcome the stigma associated with asking for help,” said Doane. “Our doors are open for all those in end of assistance. We’d hate to see something like pride get in the way of a family being fed. There is nothing shameful about asking for help.”
Interfaith Social Services is formally commemorating the 40th Anniversary of our Food Pantry at the upcoming Feed the Hungry Gala on December 4th. Click here to order your tickets today.
Click here for more information about Interfaith’s Halloween costume drive.
Thank you Interfaith and everyone that’s involved in the never ending efforts to help our neighbors in need! You are truly amazing! Many of those 800 volunteers have been clients themselves.