Thank You from Newton Food Panty
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have been so very generous this past Holiday Season with their donations to the Newton Food Pantry. Back in October, the Food Pantry was beginning to look almost empty but thanks to the kindness of so many it is now very full and ready to help those in need in our community.
The donations came from many places, both residents and local businesses. It began with the Sanborn Middle School organizing a big Food Drive in November, as well as items from individual advisory groups. Memorial School helped with food donations as well, and I know they also assisted many with Christmas presents, and Sanborn High School Guidance Department gave gift cards.
The Newton Turkey Trot also gave Food Pantry items as well as helped local families with the holidays, organized by the Rich and Kahlil families. I would also like to thank the Newton Police Department and Ocasio’s who helped with Thanksgiving dinners. Planet Fitness in Plaistow, and CBI in Newton also held Food Drives, donating many needed items. The Lions Club of Plaistow donated five Thanksgiving dinners and made Christmas wishes come true for many children in Town. The Boy Scouts donated Thanksgiving dinners as well. Empower Martial Arts in Newton held a very successful vendor fair and donated the proceeds to the Food Pantry, wanting to give back to the community. The Newton Learning Center staff and families gave Christmas gifts and gift cards, helping a family complete their Holiday. The Gideon Lodge in Kingston made a very generous donation that will enable the Food Pantry to get items needed by many. The Merrimac Savings Bank continues to keep a shopping cart in their lobby for donations, and their patrons regularly fill this cart.
As always, the Gale Library and Newton Post Office worked hard organizing Food for Fines month and both had Angel Trees - everyone who took a tag off the trees helped brighten Christmas for so many children. Thank you so much to the staff and patrons of these places for your generosity year after year.
There were also countless residents, some known and others not, who have given selflessly both at the Holidays and throughout the year. Please know that the Food Pantry wouldn’t be able to help as many as it does without your kindness.
Again, thank you.
Tina O’Rourke
Welfare Agent, Newton
