With the holiday season fast approaching, Greater Media Newspapers would like to remind readers that local food pantries are collecting items to help those individuals who may have encountered financial difficulty this year.
Unfortunately, according to the directors of local food pantries, the number of clients rises every year as the sluggish economy continues to affect more and more people.
Jeanne Yaecker, director of Freehold Area Open Door, which serves Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Colts Neck and surrounding towns, said the pantry is currently collecting items for Thanksgiving boxes.
The pantry will be accepting donations of turkeys on Nov. 20 from noon to 5 p.m. Any items for Thanksgiving, such as stuffing, cranberry sauce, vegetables, potatoes and beverages would be appreciated. FreeholdArea Open Door is at 39 Throckmorton St., Freehold Borough. Call 732-780-1089 for details.
The Samaritan Center, which serves residents of Manalapan, Marlboro, Millstone Township and Englishtown, is also collecting items for Thanksgiving boxes that will be distributed for the holiday. Regina Finn, director of the Samaritan Center, said any donations are welcome at any time of the year. Donations of food and toys will be accepted and the annual Adopt- A-Family gift-giving program will kick-off after Thanksgiving.
The Samaritan Center is at 211 Route 522, Manalapan, behind the Manalapan Senior Center. Call 732-446-1142 for information.
The Howell Food Pantry, 450 Adelphia Road (Route 524), Howell, will be distributing Thanksgiving items on Nov. 21. Questions, donations and emergency food can be taken care of on Mondays from 9-11 a.m. Call 732-938-2368 for details.
Once the Thanksgiving items have been distributed, the food pantries will start collecting for the Christmas and Hanukkah season. After the holidays, donations slow down and the shelves of the pantries empty out, but hungry people keep coming. Directors of the food pantries said donations are always appreciated.
In addition to the food pantries, religious organizations in the area often collect and distribute food to those in need. Check with local houses of worship for more information about specific efforts being run through those organizations.