Can you imagine not being able to replace a worn-out toothbrush or having to share one with multiple family members? Struggling to wash your hair because you cannot afford shampoo? Being housebound because you cannot afford menstrual products?
Bridging the gap for our neighbors in need
Many low-income people in our community are unable to afford the basic hygiene and personal grooming products we take for granted. The programs that assist with food insecurity- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and food banks- do not cover these personal products. There is no source of public funding for these essentials. After paying rent, utilities, and other living expenses, little or no money is available for these “extras.”
Each month Westminster makes a request for personal products for the FOCUS Interfaith Food Pantry. Together with donations from the other covenant churches, faith affiliates, and faith partners, the FOCUS Interfaith Food Pantry provides these essentials to families.
The need has grown tremendously
To provide a glimpse into the need, here are a few of FOCUS’s food pantry numbers for your reference:
Why the increase?
Emergency SNAP benefits started during the COVID pandemic expired in March 2023. We all see the high food costs, and housing costs have increased with the local housing shortage. Another local food pantry closed and many families were referred to FOCUS.
How can you help?
Look for Westminster’s request each month. In addition to our requested contribution- soap, shampoo, and menstrual pads are always needed. Buy an “extra” when you pick up your own personal products.
Contributions can be placed in the black Rubbermaid bin at the bottom of the stairs by the Chestnut Street entrance. Your support is greatly appreciated. For more information, contact Westminster’s FOCUS Board Members, Ned Trudeau or Kris Wilhelm. You can also contact the FOCUS Food Pantry office at 518-443-0460.
Written by Kris Wilhelm
