FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 4, 2023
Contact: Carmel Patrick or Mary D’Alessandro-Gilmore
518.281.9946 518.334.3687
patrick_carmel@hotmail.com mdalessandro@bhhsblake.com
Schenectady Shares kicks off effort
to restock food pantries’ shelves
Schenectady, N.Y. – Schenectady Shares, a new volunteer effort with a goal of addressing food insecurity and related health and well-being issues in the community today kicked off its initiative to restock food pantries in the county after the recent holiday season. At this time of year, shortages at food pantries are an unfortunate reality. To address this problem, a consortium of concerned community members have come together to alleviate hunger in Schenectady County.
With many traditional holiday food drives winding down and the harsh reality of a long, cold winter setting in, the group’s focus is to keep food pantries well stocked. Schenectady Shares commits to supporting those experiencing food insecurity by restocking the shelves of community food pantries beyond the holiday season, and by promoting awareness about year-round food insecurity.
“We pulled together an amazing group of volunteers for the Schenectady Shares Planning Committee,” said Project Chairperson Carmel Patrick. “I’m overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and compassion that these individuals have brought to the table. Thanks to their contributions and energy, I’m confident that we’ll reach our goals of collecting 15,000 pounds of food and raising $15,000.”
Schenectady Shares has partnered with the Daily Bread Food Pantry to distribute contributions to more than 20 food pantries in Schenectady County.
“This is yet another example of volunteers meeting the needs of our community through Schenectady Shares. Schenectady Shares volunteers will be tackling the reality of diminished food supplies in the pantries after the holiday season. We as a community have always taken care of each other and will continue to do so,” said Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy.
“As providers of food for people and pets, our everyday work at Price Chopper/Market 32 and Head to Tail Pet Wellness Center reminds us that food insecurity affects neighbors and friends right here in Schenectady throughout the year. It’s a privilege to join with other community members under the auspices of Schenectady Shares to help take care of our own,” said Honorary Co-Chairs Mona Golub and Marie DeBrocky.
From now until Saturday, Feb. 11, Schenectady Shares will collect nonperishable food and personal hygiene products at locations around Schenectady County, including:
- Price Chopper/Market 32 locations in Schenectady County
- City of Schenectady Fire Department
- Schenectady Police Department
- Capital Region OTB Woodlawn and Bellevue locations
- Orangetheory Fitness Niskayuna Studio
- St. Luke’s Church, Schenectady
- Schenectady County Public Library
- Schenectady County Office Building
- Schenectady County Department of Social Services
- Schenectady County Departments of Children's Services and Probation and Public Works
For more information, visit Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088481756410