For over a decade now, September has been recognized as Hunger Action Month. The title was established by Feeding America to encourage the public to learn more about the issue of hunger and food insecurities, and how to get involved to help solve these issues in their local communities.
This September, get involved in the effort here on the South Shore by supporting the South Shore YMCA food pantry at the Germantown Neighborhood Center. Your generosity provides critical support to our local community and our Staystrong cancer support program members that may need assistance.
“With 1 in 6 American children not knowing where their next meal is coming from, hunger is a serious issue across the country and here at home on the South Shore as well,” said Claire Brennan, Associate Executive Director, Germantown Neighborhood Center. “We look forward to coming together with our community both this month and throughout the year to raise awareness about food insecurity and to supporting our neighbors in need.”
Every month, approximately 500 families visit the SSYMCA Germantown Neighborhood Center’s Food Pantry located at 366 Palmer Street in Quincy. Last year alone, the Germantown Neighborhood Center’s Food Pantry distributed more than 126,250 pounds of food to people in need.
Each week, the Y’s food pantry opens to invite members of our community to choose food and personal items that they need. The pantry is open:
- Wednesday & Friday 8:30am-Noon
- Wednesday 4:00pm-6:00pm
This year, the SSYMCA is hosting initiatives throughout September in honor of Hunger Awareness Month. Our goal is to raise $10,000 this September to make an immediate impact for our neighbors who may not know where their next meal is coming from.
In order to keep our Pantry shelves stocked, please consider making a contribution to the SSYMCA. Here’s how you can help:
- Make a cash donation to the Germantown Neighborhood Center Food Pantry.
- Donate non-perishable food items or personal care products to the Pantry which may be left at any South Shore YMCA location.
Below is a list of needed items:
- Healthy Cereal / Whole Grains
- Jelly / Jams
- Healthy Snacks / Organic Snack Bars
- Juice Boxes / Organic
- Mayonnaise
- Solid White Tuna
- Chicken Noodle or Italian Style Wedding Soup
- White Bread
- Whole Wheat Bread
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If unable to donate in person, please consider making a monetary contribution this September. Make your online donation to the Y’s food pantry at ssymca.org/donate.
“Every contribution you make helps to bring food and personal items to people in need. Your donations and support of our Food Pantry has a direct impact on local youth and families, and helps to create a better, healthier future for the disadvantaged,” said Brennan. “On behalf of all those in need that we serve through our Pantry and programs, thank you for your support both this September and year-round.”
Please visit www.ssymca.org to learn more about the Food Drive, and direct any questions to Claire Brennan at cbrennan@ssymca.org or (617) 376-1384.
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About the South Shore YMCA
The South Shore YMCA is a not-for-profit association of individuals dedicated to improving the quality of life for all through programs that promote healthy spirit, mind, and body. Serving the communities of Quincy, Randolph, Holbrook, Weymouth, Braintree, Milton, Hingham, Hull, Cohasset, Scituate, Norwell, Hanover and beyond, the South Shore Y provides the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive through its services and programs. Financial Assistance is a Y community benefit available to all families in need, applicable to all Y programs and services. To learn more about the South Shore YMCA, visit www.ssymca.org. The South Shore YMCA. The Better You Belongs Here.
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