With federal nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC facing disruption, the YMCA of Metro North is launching a community-wide food drive from November 5–13 to support our local food banks in assisting families who may be feeling the strain. The Y is calling on members, neighbors, and local businesses to come together so every household in our community has access to essential groceries.
“Challenging times remind us what community really means,” said Kathleen Walsh, President & CEO of the YMCA of Metro North. “At the Y, we believe no one should face hardship alone. By opening our doors and our hearts, we can make sure every family has what they need and knows they have a community behind them.”
You can donate non-perishable food items November 5–16 at any YMCA of Metro North branch: Torigian Family YMCA – Peabody, Demakes Family YMCA – Lynn, Melrose Family, Saugus Family YMCA
Priority items include cereal, canned vegetables and fruit, pasta, rice, peanut butter, and other basic shelf-stable pantry staples.
Beyond food collection, the YMCA of Metro North is activating additional supports to stand with our neighbors. The Y recently launched a one-month free membership program for furloughed federal employees to help relieve the stress of the government shutdown. In addition, children in our Y Academy after-school programs receive hot meals and healthy snacks daily to support their nutritional needs
We are also coordinating closely with state agencies, school districts, and local partner organizations to align our response and partner to expand access and strengthen the communities we serve.