Saint Anthony's Food Pantry

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2012-01-08T17:54:00.002-05:00

Thanks to many donations of gently used winter coats we have given out over 300

coats this winter. Many people waiting outside without the proper clothing have

been appreciative of your donations. We will continue to distribute coats during the next 2 months. The Knights of Columbus provided over 200 new coats to children ages 4-12

just before Christmas. Last month we served 1,314 lunches. The new year will continue to

present many challenges and with your support it makes it possible to keep our door

open each week. God Bless and Happy New Year.

Christmas Blessings

2011-12-25T19:23:00.002-05:00

Through the generosity of so many we were able to distribute a canned ham, a new blanket,

and a Christmas stocking to everyone that came to the Pantry December 22nd. The line was

long but we were fortunate to have a warm day with temperatures in the low 50's.

The crowd was patient and thankful for the donations they received. Lasalette Shrine had

donated Christmas stockings last year and we collected small items throughout the year

to fill them. We also received some candy from the Boston Food Bank for everyone's sweet

tooth. Many groups, schools and individuals contributed by collecting canned goods.

Mayor Lang's office from the city of New Bedford donated gift cards, spiral hams and

turkeys. We served everyone a cup go homemade clam chowder and a turkey sandwich.

Our volunteers are always ready to help with a smile and a helping hand. Unfortunately

we neglected to take many pictures.

Next year will bring more challenges and we continue to pray for God's help in serving others.

May you have a blessed New Year. Please consider visiting the Pantry any Thursday during

our normal hours of 10:00 am to 1:30 pm.

A Happy Thanksgiving To All

2011-11-20T19:50:00.010-05:00

Thanksgiving donations given to grateful families

2011-11-01T05:32:00.004-04:00

A picture is worth a thousand words. Another busy week !!

2011-11-01T05:23:00.002-04:00

An enterprising young lady, Sydney Gordan, and her family sponsored a used coat drive in

her neighborhood. They collected over 85 coats which were distributed last week.

2011-10-25T19:59:00.005-04:00

Bishop Stang High School recently held their annual Rock A Thon. Students volunteered

to rock in rocking chairs for 45 minute intervals from Friday evening through Saturday

evening while collecting non perishable items for local food pantries. We were lucky enough

to receive 1/3 of the total donations which filled 2 truck loads. What a show of support and understanding of those in need. We are blessed to have their support.

2011-10-19T19:19:00.002-04:00

This fall has been a very exciting time for the food pantry. We are extremely grateful for the donations we have received these past several months. In September Bishop Stang High School

had their Rock-A-Thon. Many students participated and a third of the food collected went

to our pantry. They then sent us a generous donation from funds raised by the "Cardboard Tent City" project. Over 200 students,faculty and staff braved the elements and slept outside

to gain appreciation for the suffering many individuals endure on a nightly basis.

Last week a woman walked into the food pantry and told us she had spent the past two nights sleeping outside because she couldn't find any shelter. After several phone calls we were able to

get in touch with Catholic Charities. Within an hour they were able to place her in a shelter and they were able to send a taxi to pick her up and drive her there. The woman was very grateful

to get in from the rain and to find a warm bed for the night. A young man showed up wearing

a pair of his girlfriends flip flops, he had no other shoes to put on his feet. After taking a survey

of our male volunteers we found someone with the same size feet who went home to get his extra

pair of sneakers for the young man to wear and a pair of socks. Many volunteers are also in need

of help from time to time but they never fail to help someone else.

Most amazing of all we have received a donation of a walk in refrigeration unit through the generosity of the Tremblay Bus Company. This unit will allow us to obtain and keep fresh

produce,milk,cheese,meats,eggs and other forms of protein to be distributed. The Tremblay

Bus Company has been a guardian angel to our food pantry. They have never failed to a request

for help. They have contributed to all types of fund raisers, provided extras such as plastic bags,

paper goods and toilet paper. In the past they donated a refrigerated truck that has allowed us

to pick up enough food to meet the needs of those seeking help and support. To say thanks just doesn't seem like enough for all that they have done for the poor. They have our undying gratitude and prayers.

Pictures will follow when I have figured out where the pictures that I keep downloading have gone. I guess they are out in cyber space somewhere. Anyone with computer knowledge

and willing to help out please give me a call or send an email. Paula

508-994-9907/ email: bpaula1@comcast.net

Fresh Produce from Commission on Hunger

2011-09-23T17:15:00.005-04:00

The Commission on Hunger brought us fresh produce again this week. Robert Medeiros one of

our faithful volunteers was handing out fresh cabbages. We also received fresh beets,

romain lettuce and squash to add into bags for distribution. Over 200 families were

grateful to receive fresh items.

We have started collecting gently used winter coats to give out during the winter months.

You may drop off donations any Thursday during food pantry hours 9am-1:30pm, any Tuesday

afternoon or Sunday morning from 8am-12noon. There is a collection box near the food

pantry door at the back of the hall. We're also collecting NEW blankets to give out for Christmas. A few years ago we gave a blanket to an elderly man and the next day

when I was on my way to Church I noticed him walking down the street wrapped up in

the blanket. For the past few years we have been trying to help each family receive a blanket at Christmas time. New statistics are 1 out of every 6 people in the United States need food assistance. Twenty three percent of children in the State of Massachusetts are nutritionally

deprived. Every donation counts. Soon we'll be posting more information on the upcoming

holidays and what YOU may be able to do to help someone in need.

2011-08-28T10:55:00.003-04:00

Even though the temperature is still warm we are looking ahead to the winter season.

We have started to collect for Thanksgiving: stuffing mix, gravy, cranberry sauce, cake mixes, Jell-O, pudding and pie mixes so if you are shopping and see any of these items on sale please think about helping a family to have a happier day.

This week we had 29 new families sign in to start coming to the pantry!!!!!!

Sunday September 18^TH we are having a Silpata Party to benefit the pantry in the Church Hall. It will be from 2PM-4PM. Please feel free to stop by and chat, browse or shop!! Lots of our volunteers will be there to meet and greet you. There will be jewelry demonstrations and some yummy goodies to munch on.

This Christmas we hope to again distribute new blankets to our families. The blanket drive will bee from Thanksgiving up until Christmas.

We are collecting winter coats to be distributed when the weather turns cold. Please only donate clean coats that are not in need of repair. There will be a drop off bin near the food pantry door inside the Church hall. Donations can be left during food pantry hours or when the Church is open for Mass or Bingo.

Finally a Huge Hug and Thank You to Eric Simmons who created this blog and maintained it for the past two years. It will be hard to fill his shoes!

BACK TO SCHOOL DONATIONS

2011-08-28T10:36:00.003-04:00

A special thank you to St. Mary’s Church in New Bedford for donations of hand sanitizers to give to children to take to school. They were lunch box scented: peanut butter, grape jelly, cucumber to name a few. This week several employees from Southcoast Hospitals Group came along with their grandchildren to distribute school supplies to children who were at the pantry. A lot of happy kids were able to pick up some new pencils, pens, rulers, erasers and notebooks.

THE GREAT FRED

2011-08-28T10:04:00.002-04:00

Cleaning up at the end of the day is one of the most important jobs our volunteers have.

We have a great bunch of helpers and sometimes we get to goof off!! Here is Fred

Showing off his balancing skills. Fred also picks up bread donations several times during the week, drives the truck for food pick ups, hands out groceries and does multiple serving tasks. We’re always looking for volunteers so think about stopping by one Thursday and see for yourself what we do.

NATURE'S BOUNTY

2011-08-28T09:58:00.003-04:00

This has been a very busy summer at the Food Pantry. We have been blessed by receiving a lot of produce from The Commission on Hunger volunteer garden located in Dartmouth. Each week they have brought to us fresh produce: lettuce, squash, cucumbers, eggplant and tomatoes. A healthy treat for our families. We also received ice cream and watermelon from The Greater Boston Food Bank that we served for dessert. The volunteers also enjoyed the special treats.

Summer Heat Arrives

2011-07-22T08:27:00.004-04:00

Pantry volunteers and visitors braved near record heat this week for the distribution of cereal, assorted canned goods, yogurt, orange juice, chicken, onions, scallions, squash, kale, and eggs as well as a good lunch. Thank you to everyone who helped keep things "cool" yesterday.

Have a safe summer and please feel free to come by any Thursday to help out, even for an hour or two, you can make a difference.

July Food Deliveries

2011-07-05T08:24:00.001-04:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times for this month are Tuesday July 12 at 12:15, Thursday July 14 at 10:00, Thursday July 21 at 10:00, and Thursday July 28 at 10:00.

Unloading and storing the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries is vital to the operation of the Saint Anthony Food Pantry. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of July, or if you can help at the food distribution times on Thursdays, let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator, at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

Youth Group Visits to Help Out

2011-07-01T10:58:00.007-04:00

School is out for summer and the St Anthony's Youth Group was at the pantry to help out. Their support is very much appreciated. They all have amazing energy and enthusiasm.

Your help would be appreciated as well. Please feel free to stop in any Thursday and see for yourself what is happening, it may inspire you to participate in some way. May God Bless You.

Generous Supporters and Dedicated Volunteers

2011-06-24T11:20:00.004-04:00

From June 2010 thru May 2011 the Food Pantry has given out 40,309 bags of groceries and served 10,211 lunches! This would not have been possible without the generous donations of many persons here at Saint Anthony's and at other nearby parishes such as St. Mary’s, St. John Neumann, St Francis, St. John’s and Our Lady of Fatima. This would also not have been possible without the 700 volunteer hours a month it takes to keep the pantry running.

Hot Time, Almost Summer in the City

2011-06-10T11:14:00.004-04:00

Though it's not quite summer here in New Bedford it sure has been warm. In spite of the heat the pantry volunteers and visitors still have time to smile. For yesterday's visitors the pantry had cereal, assorted canned goods, lowfat or whole milk, juice, bratwurst or sausage, crackers, potato salad, onions, potatoes, eggs as well as a good lunch served with ice tea.

Please feel free to come by any Thursday to help out, even for an hour or two, you can make a difference. Please remember that we are no longer accepting any used items. You can bring your used clothing and household donations directly to Planet Earth, Savers or Gifts for Giving. Empty egg cartons and used plastic bags are always needed and of course any non perishable items you may have to spare are always appreciated.

Thanks again for all you do to help. And please stop by the pantry booth this weekend during the St. Anthony Feast.

June Food Deliveries

2011-06-01T06:29:00.003-04:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times for this month are Wednesday June 8 at 1:15, Tuesday June 14 at 12:15, Wednesday June 15 at 1:15, and Wednesday June 22 at 3:15.

Unloading and storing the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries is vital to the operation of the Saint Anthony Food Pantry. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of June, or at the food distribution times on Thursdays, let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator, at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

An Update on Recent and Upcoming Events

2011-05-19T17:20:00.004-04:00

Thanks to everyone who contributed to make the Spaghetti Supper/Sock Hop put on by the Food Pantry and the Youth Group a great success. It made for a fantastic evening of good food and great company.

This was a wonderful year for donations to the food pantry during the Feinstein Challenge. Each dollar donated and each item received during the challenge counts as a "dollar" towards a share in the Million Dollars distributed by the the Feinstein Foundation and this year we collected 33,757 in "dollars" during the months of March and April. We have been participating since 2006 when we collected 4,085 "dollars" and each year we have surpassed the previous year thanks to your generosity.

May 21 is Aviation Day at New Bedford Airport and we will be setting up a display table with information so that Aviation Day visitors can learn more about our food pantry. We will be selling candy bars and also have a jar available for donations. Last year 7,000 people attended this event and we are lucky to have been invited. Please stop by to visit us if you are there on that fun filled day!

Please remember that we are no longer accepting any used items. Please bring your used clothing and household donations directly to Planet Earth, Savers or Gifts for Giving.

Empty egg cartons and used plastic bags are always needed and of course any non perishable items you may have to spare are always appreciated. Toilet paper as always is one of the most requested items. Every roll donated is appreciated. Thanks again for all you do to help those less fortunate. Your donations mean a lot.

For further information on participating in the pantry or on donating to the pantry please contact Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator at 508-993-1691.

Aluminum Buys Diapers

2011-05-13T13:37:00.005-04:00

Aluminum donations are very important to the success of "The Baby Project" here at Saint Anthony's. Non-deposit recyclable aluminum cans have real value as scrap metal that helps pay for the diapers that "The Project" distributes each week in conjunction with the food pantry. You can help. To learn more read the flyer shown below or contact Diane Bolton at 508-994-8421.

May Food Deliveries

2011-05-02T12:19:00.002-04:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times for this month are Tuesday May 10 at 12:15, Wednesday May 11 at 1:15, Wednesday May 18 at 1:15, and Wednesday May 25 at 3:15.

Even though we now have help from the folks at Harmony House we can still use more extra help with these tasks. Unloading and storing the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries is vital to the operation of the Saint Anthony Food Pantry. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of May, or at the food distribution times on Thursdays, let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator, at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

Many Hands Lighten the Burden

2011-04-23T12:01:00.006-04:00

Many hands certainly do lighten the burden and we had the benefit of many, many hands helping last Thursday at the pantry. Students from Bishop Stang High School joined with our regular volunteers and their family members to serve more than 300 persons. Thank you to all.

2nd Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Sock Hop

2011-04-14T20:21:00.003-04:00

Saturday April 30th is our parish’s second annual Spaghetti Supper/Sock Hop to be sponsored by the food pantry and youth group. Doors will open at 5:30. Dinner will be served beginning at 6:00 and will be followed by dancing to music from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s. Costumes are encouraged. There will be a hula hoop competition and bubble blowing contest. Artwork and more has been donated for an auction. Tickets are $8.00 for adults, $4.00 for children (12 and under) and $25 for a family of four or more. Tickets will be available from all youth group members and food pantry volunteers. So get your poodle skirts and saddle shoes back out and come on to the hop!

March Report

2011-04-05T17:17:00.006-04:00

On the five Thursdays that the pantry was open during the month of March we provided 3,496 bags of groceries to 874 families that included 674 children. During March we also served more than 964 meals.

At the beginning of March we started the 2011 Feinstein One Million Dollar Challenge and we will be participating in the Challenge through April 30; all donations received during that time period are counted to give us a proportionate share in the money.

Thank you again to the many people who support the pantry either through donations or by volunteering.

April Food Deliveries

2011-04-04T17:02:00.004-04:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times for this month are Tuesday April 12 at 12:15, Wednesday April 13 at 1:15, Wednesday April 20 at 1:15, and Wednesday April 27 at 3:15.

Unloading and storing the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries is vital to the operation of the Saint Anthony Food Pantry. Even though we now have help from the folks at Harmony House we can still use more extra help with these tasks. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of April, or at the food distribution times on Thursdays, let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator, at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

Bishop Stang Students Help Out

2011-04-01T20:13:00.002-04:00

The pantry at Saint Anthony's of Padua in New Bedford usually offers a variety of food products including bread, cereal, canned and fresh vegetables, meat, poultry, eggs, cheese, milk, juice and more each week. However, due to food delivery schedules, types of food donated, or just the numbers of persons seeking assistance one or more of these food items could be unavailable or in short supply on a particular food distribution day. But, thanks to the students of Bishop Stang High School, one item that is sure to be on hand in the next several weeks is cereal. Students at the school recently collected and delivered over 1000 boxes of cereal to the pantry! No, that's not a typo ... they really did bring us over 1000 boxes of cereal. Wow!

Feinstein Million Dollar Challenge

2011-03-12T09:35:00.004-05:00

The Feinstein One Million Dollar Challenge is underway again for 2011. All donations, either food or money, received by the food pantry between March 1 and April 30 are counted towards giving us a proportionate share in the Challenge money. And of course all donations in and of themselves are vitally important to stocking the pantry and providing food for the pantry patrons. Your generosity will be greatly appreciated.

Prince Henry Society Brotherhood Award

2011-03-06T18:44:00.003-05:00

Last week the Prince Henry Society of New Bedford awarded Paula and Arnie Briden their Brotherhood Award in recognition of the great work our parish food pantry has done.

Upon receiving the award both Paula and Arnie graciously acknowledged that what is being accomplished at the pantry is only possible because of the hard work of all of the volunteers and they accepted the award on behalf of everyone who helps. Father Landry reiterated this in stating that the award was "Not only a tribute to the commitment of Paula and Arnie, but to all those who collaborate with them to make our food pantry do so much good. Congratulations to Arnie and Paula and to all the volunteers at our parish food pantry."

Father Landry also expressed gratitude to the Prince Henry Society "for bringing the hard work of our food pantry to the attention of all its members in this way".

March Food Deliveries

2011-03-03T17:46:00.003-05:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times for this month are Tuesday March 8 at 12:15, Wednesday March 9 at 1:15, Wednesday March 16 at 1:15, and Wednesday March 23 at 3:15.

Unloading and storing the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries is vital to the operation of the Saint Anthony Food Pantry. We can always use extra help with these tasks. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of March, or at the food distribution times on Thursdays, let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator, at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

CCD Volunteers at Pantry to Help

2011-02-25T11:09:00.007-05:00

CCD students from St Anthony's as well as other student volunteers were on hand this Thursday to help with food preparation and food distribution for the many people who visited the pantry. The efforts of those who chose to use some of their vacation time to work at the pantry is a strong testimony to the caring character of these young people. Wherever you might have looked Thursday the students could be seen - eagerly gathered to speak with Father Landry; rapidly wheeling dollies and handtrucks loaded with potatoes, carrots, onions, yogurt, eggs, milk, cereal, tofu, lettuce; carefully bagging produce; happily making and serving lunches; and, of course, tirelessly distributing food.

With the many students on hand to help, several of our regular volunteers even had a few minutes just before the pantry opened to share some laughter and pose for a group photo.

The student volunteers that come to the pantry are a great help and are greatly appreciated when they are available but we do very much depend on the hard work done by our regular volunteers to keep the pantry going each and every week. Thank you all.

Upcoming Events

2011-02-09T06:31:00.001-05:00

There are many upcoming events for the pantry in the next several weeks that we would like you to know about.

On February 17, we will have St. Luke's nurses present for blood pressure monitoring, diabetes screening and cholesterol checks during regular pantry hours 12-1:30pm. All are welcome.

From March 1-April 30, we will participate in the Feinstein One Million Dollar Challenge. All donations received during that time period are counted to give us a proportionate share in the money. Last year we were very successful with our participation and hope to be even more successful this year. You can help.

On Saturday, April 30, we will cosponsor a Spaghetti supper/dance with the youth group. Last year's event was great fun. This year's will be too. Hope to see you there.

And please continue your donations of used plastic bags and any non-perishable food items that you can spare. Your donations mean a lot.

Pantry Winter Storm Policy

2011-02-08T08:18:00.002-05:00

During this snowy wintry season, we have had to cancel the food pantry on a couple of occasions because of the parking ban as well as the danger to volunteers and those seeking food of getting to the food pantry despite the ice and snow. Rather than having people wonder about whether the food pantry is open (for those who don’t listen to the radio, call the rectory or visit the web site), we’ve decided upon the policy that when school is canceled in New Bedford, the food pantry will be closed.

Hopefully the worst of the winter storms are done for this season and the pantry will be open each Thursday.

February Food Deliveries

2011-02-01T08:42:00.001-05:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times for this month are Tuesday February 8 at 12:15, Wednesday February 9 at 1:15, Wednesday February 16 at 1:15, and Wednesday February 23 at 3:15.

Unloading and storing the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries is vital to the operation of the Saint Anthony Food Pantry. We can always use extra help with these tasks. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of February, or at the food distribution times on Thursdays, let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator, at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

More Snow! Pantry Closed this Week

2011-01-27T08:42:00.000-05:00

Food distribution scheduled for Thursday January 27 has been canceled due to snow conditions in New Bedford. We will be open next week for food distribution.

Happy New Year and Many Thanks

2011-01-25T20:55:00.001-05:00

Total volunteer hours at the pantry for 2010 were 6,955 hrs or approximately 134 hours each week. Thank you. We appreciate everything volunteers and donors did last year and are looking forward to a continuing partnership with our many friends and helpers in 2011.

Recent weather in southern New England has made getting about difficult but the people who visit the pantry are still very much in need of help. Some specific items we are looking for at the pantry include plastic bags, soup, cereal and peanut butter. Toilet paper is also still asked for each week.

Please note that we are no longer accepting any used items or clothing.

Snow! Pantry Closed this Week

2011-01-12T18:23:00.005-05:00

Food distribution scheduled for Thursday January 13 has been canceled due to snow conditions in New Bedford. We will be open next week for food distribution.

The food delivery originally scheduled for Wednesday January 12 at 1:15 has been rescheduled to Thursday January 13 at 1:15.

January Food Deliveries

2011-01-01T14:50:00.001-05:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times are Tuesday January 11 at 12:15, Wednesday January 12 at 1:15, Wednesday January 19 at 1:15, and Wednesday January 26 at 3:15.

Unloading and storing the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries could be an excellent opportunity to put a New Year's resolutions into practice. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of January, or at the food distribution times on Thursdays, let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator, at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

Merry Christmas ...

2010-12-24T11:03:00.015-05:00

We had almost 350 families, which included 281 children, come through the pantry on Thursday ... and there were 50 volunteers helping with the distribution of food, blankets and gifts; helping with the preparation of lunch; helping with registration; and helping with the many other tasks that needed to be done. Everything went smoothly and we were cleaning up the hall by 2:15.

Once again we are deeply grateful for the generosity of those who contributed food, blankets, gifts and more. Thank you and God bless you.

Normandin Middle School Helpers

2010-12-11T18:21:00.007-05:00

Last Thursday's visit to the pantry by Normandin Middle School students was truly a multiple blessing ... not only did the students arrive with boxes and bags and even more boxes of food that they had collected but they carried all this food in, sorted it, helped bag produce we had on hand, and then helped distribute the bags! It is wonderfully rewarding to share the pantry work with so many young, enthusiastic, and energetic persons. Thank you. Thank you.

Blankets Needed ... You Can Help

2010-12-10T09:47:00.001-05:00

During the months of November and December we are collecting new blankets to give to pantry visitor families for Christmas. We are making good progress with about 100 blankets donated so far. Our goal is to give 400 families the gift of a warm new blanket this year. While you are planning your holiday shopping please consider adding a blanket for one or more of our families to your list. Any size is appreciated. There is a large box near the food pantry door for blankets you may wish to drop off. Thank you.

A Change Regarding Clothing Donations

2010-12-04T09:58:00.003-05:00

Because of increasing concerns about bedbugs, effective immediately we are no longer accepting any used clothing to be given out at the pantry. Other organizations with better capabilities to handle possible bug problems are still accepting used clothing. St Vincent de Paul Society, Savers, Good Will in Wareham and any Planet Earth boxes, for example, are good alternatives for your donations.

Please note that we will still accept new items and make sure they go to someone who is in need. Thank you for all your past donations and your understanding regarding this change.

December Food Deliveries

2010-12-02T19:08:00.002-05:00

After a very busy November we will be working extra hard this month to restock the pantry and we would be more than happy to have you help us. Upcoming food delivery dates and times are Wednesday December 8 at 1:15, Tuesday December 14 at 12:15, Wednesday December 15 at 1:15, and Wednesday December 22 at 3:15.

Unloading and storing the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries is an excellent opportunity to invest in service to God and others. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of December, or at the food distribution times on Thursdays, let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator, at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

Turkeys and Stuffing and Cranberry Sauce! Oh My!

2010-11-19T21:23:00.007-05:00

Wow! What a wonderful day we had at the pantry this Thursday. After a very early start preparing bags we began distributing turkeys and fixings right on time at noon.

Just before we got underway the line of persons coming to receive help stretched all the way from where the truck was parked on Nye Street at the back of the church down past the rectory to Acushnet Avenue. A short time later the line had grown even longer and was wrapped around the corner along the Avenue past the church steps to Bullard Street. By 2:30 when the line was finally finished and we were wrapping up some 400 people had received thanksgiving food.

None of this would not have been possible without the generosity of those who contributed food and money, the hard work of volunteers, as well as the patience and good spirits of the pantry patrons. Thank you and bless you all.

Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive

2010-11-13T13:14:00.004-05:00

Before and after all Masses on November 13-14, there will be a food drive for the parish food pantry led by the dedicated women of the parish SALT group. Please consider bringing with you to Mass this weekend non-perishable food items like cranberry sauce, canned gravy, instant potatoes, pie filling, stuffing mix, cake mix, cake frosting and muffin mix. There will also be baskets to leave monetary donations or food cards that will help to purchase turkeys and other needed foods.

November Food Deliveries

2010-11-05T09:53:00.001-04:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times for the pantry this month are Tuesday November 9 at 12:15, Wednesday November 10 at 1:15, and Wednesday November 17 at 1:15.

Helping unload and store the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries is an excellent opportunity to invest in service to God and others. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of November or at the food distribution times on Thursdays let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

A Very Busy October

2010-10-29T09:29:00.007-04:00

The pantry was very busy again this month. It is hard to imagine how we could meet the growing need for food assistance without the hard work of our many dedicated regular volunteers ... some of whom are shown in this collection of recent photos.

September Report

2010-10-13T20:22:00.008-04:00

On the five Thursdays that the pantry was open during the month of September we provided 4,144 bags of groceries to families that included 958 adults, 78 seniors and 889 children under the age of 18.

Along with these bags of groceries we distributed a great variety of fresh produce including kale, collard greens, green beans, squash, zucchini and onions received from Sharing the Harvest, a farm in Dartmouth in which the Hunger Commission is a collaborating partner.

During September we also served more than 964 meals.

Coats that have been collected for the past several months will be being distributed starting on October 21st

So far 236 turkeys have been donated for Thanksgiving ... yes, that's a lot of turkeys, but we need about 300 more!

And please don't forget that our Blanket Drive will begin November 1st ... we've already received some blankets but we will need many more to help meet the need in our community.

Thank you again to everyone who has donated and to all who plan to donate as well. For further information on turkey and blanket donations please contact Paula Briden, Food Pantry Coordinator, by phone at 508-993-1691 or by email at bpaula1@comcast.net .

Bishop Stang Food Drive

2010-10-01T09:42:00.005-04:00

On Monday this week we were at Bishop Stang High School where the National Honor Society students had collected over 8,600 lbs of food donations during their Rock-a-thon Food Drive. Wow!

Thankfully we have a big truck and thankfully the students were there to load and pack the portion of donations allocated for Saint Anthony's Food Pantry. Rock on!

All Saints Catholic School Food Drive

2010-09-28T12:03:00.004-04:00

When All Saints Catholic School opened its doors for its first academic school year this fall there was new pavement, new floor, new class lists, and a new school community which combined the students of St. Joseph-St. Therese and St. Mary’s schools. There was also the important continuation of a long tradition of faith-based, values-oriented education and of caring for the community.

A recent food drive to bring awareness of the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables as well as assisting the poor was conducted by the school with food from the drive being given to Saint Anthony's for distribution at our pantry.

The efforts of the students at All Saints show the effects of the education students at the school are getting and these efforts are making a vital difference to the community served by the Saint Anthony's Food Pantry.

October Food Deliveries

2010-09-27T12:55:00.004-04:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times for the pantry this month are Tuesday October 12 at 12:15, Wednesday October 13 at 1:15, Wednesday October 20 at 1:15 and Wednesday October 27 at 3:15.

Helping unload and store the cases of food and produce received in these deliveries is an excellent opportunity to invest in service to God and others, and would be a wonderful beginning to taking action after Commitment Sunday this last weekend. Your support of Saint Anthony's Food Pantry is greatly needed and would be greatly appreciated. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of October or at the food distribution times on Thursdays let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

Ongoing and Upcoming

2010-09-17T15:10:00.003-04:00

We've had a busy Summer at the pantry and as Fall approaches we expect to be just as busy. Even if you are unable to volunteer at the pantry on Thursdays you can still help with an ongoing drive and with some upcoming efforts that are planned.

Believe it or not the most asked for item other than food at the pantry is for toilet paper! We are having a toilet paper drive right now during September and on into October. If you could bring in one roll every time you come to Mass at Saint Anthony's during those months it would be awesome.

During November and December we will be having another blanket drive. Last year's drive was very successful and we would like this year's to be just as helpful. The goal is to collect 350 new blankets to give out the week before Christmas — one to each of the families we regularly serve. This is a lot of blankets but together we can make it happen. Thank you for your generosity.

Next year, during March and April, we will once more be participating in the Feinstein Challenge.

And on April 30, 2011 we have a dinner/dance planned. We'd like to see you there.

For further information on participating in the pantry or in these efforts please contact Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator at 508-993-1691.

On Any Given Thursday and More

2010-09-06T09:23:00.004-04:00

During a Thursday afternoon visit to the Saint Anthony Pantry it wouldn't take anyone long to notice Doris Boivin. She seems to be everywhere, and to be doing everything … husking corn, bagging tomatoes, instructing new volunteers, directing long time volunteers, hauling trash and more. The only time Doris can be found standing still is during the prayer shortly before the pantry doors open.

It might take a little longer to spot Doris' husband Butch but he would be just as busy … loading or unloading the pantry truck, moving food, stacking pallets or even on one recent Thursday afternoon carefully repairing a Saint Jude plaque that had been donated.

But for both Doris and Butch the work on Thursday is only a small part of the time and energy they devote to the pantry. Other tasks that Doris does include purchasing, and procurement of the food, directing the team at each delivery, picking up bread, picking up and dropping off clothing and recruiting volunteers. Butch is the primary driver for the pantry truck during the four food pickups each month from New Bedford, Taunton and Boston. Butch also maintains the truck. Both Doris and Butch spend some 20 hours a week supporting the pantry in addition to other church work in which they are involved.

Doris and Butch have been generously helping at the pantry for quite some time. Doris remembers that when they started there were some 50 clients and about 20 helpers … there are many more clients than that now and more than 80 persons serving in the pantry. Doris and Butch also remember the trailer they bought and insulated for transport of the pantry groceries … they are both extremely thankful for the truck that we now have. They are also both very happy to still be helping and to be staying "energized" through the work they do. Two years ago the Anchor did a feature article on Doris and Butch which captures this energy and is well worth reading … a copy can be found here.

On any given Thursday or almost any other day of the week Doris and Butch are busy supporting the pantry. Their contribution is vital to the pantry's success and is an inspiration to the other volunteers. Perhaps they have inspired you as well and you are interesting in volunteering ... if so please contact Paula Briden, Food Pantry Coordinator, by phone at 508-993-1691 or by email at bpaula1@comcast.net .

September Food Deliveries

2010-08-28T13:41:00.002-04:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times for the pantry are Wednesday September 8 at 1:15, Tuesday September 14 at 12:15, Wednesday September 15 at 1:15 and Wednesday September 22 at 3:15. Helping unload and store the cases of food received in these deliveries is an excellent opportunity for you to support the Saint Anthony's Food Pantry. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of September let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

July Results

2010-08-19T19:49:00.003-04:00

On the five Thursdays that the pantry was open this July we provided 3,780 bags of groceries to help a total of 945 families ... in those households there were 818 children under the age of 18. During June we also served more than 850 meals.

Every item donated goes to help someone. A can of tuna, a jar of peanut butter or a can of soup can make the difference between someone going to bed hungry or not. Thank you for each and every donation.

Providing groceries and lunches requires many volunteers. Perhaps you would like to help. If so please contact Paula Briden, Food Pantry Coordinator, by phone at 508-993-1691 or by email at bpaula1@comcast.net .

Thanks, Thanks, Thanks Student Helpers

2010-08-14T21:55:00.004-04:00

Can you get too much of a good thing? Not if that good thing is the students from Saint Francis Xavier School in Acushnet helping at the pantry. This last week our student helpers from Saint Francis and some student family members of regular volunteers were back.

And once more they were very helpful. It's hard to imagine how we would have bagged all those tomatoes and all that corn so quickly without the extra help the students provided.

But the students aren't here every week and the produce and other food stuffs are ... perhaps you would like to help as well ... if so please contact Paula Briden, Food Pantry Coordinator, by phone at 508-993-1691 or by email at bpaula1@comcast.net .

August Food Deliveries

2010-07-31T09:10:00.004-04:00

Upcoming food delivery dates and times are Tuesday August 10 at 12:15, Wednesday August 11 at 1:30, Wednesday August 18 at 1:30 and Wednesday August 25 at 3:15. Helping unload and store the cases of food received in these deliveries is an excellent opportunity for you to support the Saint Anthony's Food Pantry. If you are available at any of the delivery times for the month of August let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

Thank You Again Student Helpers

2010-07-16T17:12:00.011-04:00

Yesterday students from Saint Francis Xavier School in Acushnet as well as young family members of some of our regular volunteers were back at the pantry helping out.

They were busy, busy, busy ... setting up tables; building grocery bags of non-perishables; bringing in produce from the refrigerator truck; preparing lunches; sorting and setting out clothing; wheeling in handtrucks loaded with cases of apple juice, milk, eggs, cheese, sausage patties, diapers and more for distribution; keeping the pantry entrance lines moving smoothly; folding cardboard for recycling; stacking and wrapping empty banana boxes; sweeping; cleaning; tossing out bags of trash; pitching in to help with any and all of the routine pantry tasks where their help was needed ... and in addition several of the students had a special task of distributing ice cream to people waiting in line before the pantry opened.

We were happy to have the student helpers here ... and so were the many folks who received ice cream. Thank you again.

June Report

2010-07-15T18:38:00.001-04:00

On the four Thursdays that the pantry was open this June we provided 2,684 bags of groceries to help a total of 671 families ... in those households there were 592 children under the age of 18. During June we also served 837 meals.

These figures reflect the help our pantry is providing to address the current situation where "one in every six Americans is in need of food assistance".

Providing groceries and lunches requires many volunteers and right now we have 83 persons listed as serving in the pantry. We couldn't do what we are doing without their help ... perhaps you would like to help as well ... if so please contact Paula Briden, Food Pantry Coordinator, by phone at 508-993-1691 or by email at bpaula1@comcast.net .

Fresh produce is a very important part of our pantry operation and we are happy to note that Saint Anthony's is now listed at AmbleHarvest.org where gardeners can help diminish hunger by sharing excess garden produce with neighborhood pantries. We are looking forward to bountiful partnerships with the gardeners who contact us through this organization.

The Baby Project

2010-07-12T12:16:00.014-04:00

Each Thursday at Saint Anthony's Food Pantry, we host the independently run Baby Project; founded and administered by Diane Bolton since 2006. Diane attentively serves the many mothers and children who come to the Saint Anthony's Food Pantry with diapers, baby formula, and other support.

In order to fund the Baby Project requires a good amount of fund raising on Diane's part. Two important sources for money are the Postcard Project and the Aluminum Project. Profits from the sale of enlarged postcard reproductions and recycled soda cans are very important to sources of revenue for the Baby Project.

Donations of empty soda cans will be accepted at the Saint Anthony's Food Pantry any Thursdays from noon to 1:30 P.M.

Checks must be made out to The Baby Project or Diane Bolton.

Please do not make out checks to the Saint Anthony Food Pantry, as the Baby Project is independently run.

For more information, call Diane Bolton at (508) 994-8421.

Which Came First?

2010-06-30T06:07:00.004-04:00

On most Thursdays since mid 2008, from before his appearance on ABC's 20/20 with Elizabeth Vargas last April to tell of the miracle that changed his life and since then as well, Joe Amaral can be found quietly and humbly working alongside the many other volunteers at the Saint Anthony's Food Pantry … well humbly anyway but probably not quietly … Joe likes to talk with the people who come to the pantry for food and they like to talk with him. There is never a shortage of things to talk about ... the weather, local sports and of course food. A wide variety of food is distributed at the pantry and quite frequently chickens and eggs are among the food given out. Recently Joe's discussions have been, not surprisingly if you know Joe, about "Which came first, the chicken or the egg?" Good question right? The many persons coming through the pantry have many different thoughts on this and Joe has his as well … he's able to give answers from a multitude of perspectives … theological, dictionary order, biological, and even food pantry counter position … but it's obvious that the friendly conversation and not the exact answer is what is most important to Joe and the pantry visitors.

But if you want to move beyond the chicken and egg question, if you want to get serious, and want to really know "What comes first?" Joe will tell you that for him the answer is very easy. For Joe "God comes first".

July Food Deliveries

2010-06-28T08:20:00.003-04:00

Food delivery dates for this month are Tuesday July 13 at 12:15, Wednesday July 14 at 1:15, Wednesday July 21 at 1:15 and Wednesday July 28 at 3:15. Helping unload and store the cases of food received in these deliveries is an excellent opportunity for you to support the Saint Anthony's Food Pantry. If you are available to help at any of the delivery times for the month of July let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator at 508-993-1691.

Please note that you can check for upcoming deliveries and other pantry activity by looking at our calendar here or using the link under "Basic Pantry Information" in the menu on the right.

May Report

2010-06-25T11:03:00.002-04:00

On the four Thursdays that the pantry was open this May we provided 2,948 bags of groceries to help a total of 737 families ... 664 of those households we helped had children under the age of 18. During May we also served 947 meals.

Every item donated goes to help someone. A can of tuna, a jar of peanut butter or a can of soup can make the difference between someone going to bed hungry or not. Thank you for each and every donation.

June Food Deliveries

2010-06-06T18:32:00.005-04:00

The many bags of groceries we distribute each week reguires that we have regular deliveries of food to the pantry each month. Food delivery dates for this month are Tuesday June 8 at 12:15, Wednesday June 9 at 1:15, Wednesday June 16 at 1:15 and Wednesday June 23 at 3:15. Helping unload and store the cases of food received in these deliveries is an excellent opportunity for you to support the Saint Anthony's Food Pantry ... the process takes less than an hour and you can get as much exercise as a work out at the gym! If you are available to help at any of the delivery times for the month of June let us know by calling Paula, the Food Pantry Coordinator at 508-993-1691.

Feinstein Million Dollar Give-a-Way Update

2010-05-28T09:28:00.000-04:00

Thank you for your generosity in supporting our taking part in the national Feinstein Million Dollar Give-a-Way for food pantries in 2010. This year we have earned a total of 25,720 points ... this is more than double the 12,00 points we earned last year ... and more than six times the 4,085 points we earned in 2006 when we first began participating in the Feinstein Give-a-Way. We are waiting now to learn what the pantry's dollar allocation will be.

April Report

2010-05-22T07:08:00.003-04:00

April was another busy month. On the five Thursdays that the pantry was open this April we provided 6,156 bags of groceries to help a total of 1,539 clients from 794 households ... 745 of those we helped were children under the age of 18. And we still average 30 new families a week seeking help!

Every item donated goes to help someone. A can of tuna, a jar of peanut butter or a can of soup can make the difference between someone going to bed hungry or not. Thank you for each and every donation.

Pots and Pans

2010-05-15T10:09:00.004-04:00

During the last 12 months, from the end of April 2009 through April 2010, the pantry at Saint Anthony's has served over 9,000 lunches … that's a lot of food, a lot of cooking … and a lot of scrubbing pots and pans. Yes, we are very appreciative of the generosity of the people who've given donations that make our lunch program possible, and certainly we are most grateful for the hard work of the people who helped prepare the 9,634 lunches served but we are also especially thankful for the young men and women from the Southeastern Massachusetts Educational Collaborative (SMEC) who over the last four years have supported our lunch program by washing and drying the many, many pots, pan and utensils that were used to make our lunches. Their tireless and dependable contribution over the lengthy time they have worked with us, though it goes largely unseen by visitors to the pantry, has been vitally important to our lunch program and to the community. This last week the team from SMEC included Lynn, Amy, and Megan along with Heather, Jeffry, Jen, Jordan and Ed. When asked about why he volunteers at the pantry Jeffry paused briefly from washing a pan and answered that he did this because the pantry folk are "wonderful people". Jeff's praise of the other volunteers at the pantry is great to hear … he and the others from SMEC are "wonderful" as well … and there are always opportunities at the pantry for even more "wonderful people".

Upcoming St. Lukes Mobile Health Van Visit

2010-05-04T12:30:00.001-04:00

On May 20, 2010 the St. Luke's Mobile Health Van will be here at the pantry. Nurses will be available to check blood pressures, do cholesterol screenings, and take blood sugar readings.

A Thank You for 'Genuine Care and Consideration'

2010-04-30T06:28:00.004-04:00

Each week many of the people who visit the pantry here at Saint Anthony's take time to personally thank one or more of our volunteers for the services that the pantry provides. We value this face to face feedback … hearing a heartfelt 'thank you' while helping in the pantry is very meaningful for our hard working volunteers. And every once in awhile we also get a letter thanking us for what we do … one such letter we recently received is provided below:

St. Anthony's is a vital part of our community. Every week they provide food, clothes, meals to hundreds of people. Many of these people are families. They have helped us personally in a tremendous way. Their selfless genuine care and consideration for the needs of the people are truly wondrous and indispensable. I am grateful for them. We don't have a lot of money and my husband and I have disabilities. I can't say how many times we needed food and they were there. 90% of our food often comes from pantries. They are like family and I don't even want to contemplate how difficult it would be for us if they weren't there for us and so many others. I thank God for them.

It is wonderful to get a letter like this … we are happy to have been helpful to this family and hope to be as helpful for many others.

Thank You to Student Helpers

2010-04-24T10:57:00.005-04:00

This last Thursday at the pantry we were blessed with having student helpers from Bishop Stang High School in Dartmouth and from Saint Francis Xavier School in Acushnet as well as young family members of many of our regular volunteers. It was a delight to have so many additional people participating in the pantry. Where ever you might have looked around the hall at Saint Anthony's on Thursday you could see the smiling faces of our busy student helpers ... moving and setting up food, clothing and baby supplies; preparing meals; bagging fruits and vegetables; keeping the pantry entrance lines moving smoothly and more. We very much appreciate all the enthusiastic energy they brought to share with us and all the hard work they did. Thank you.

Good Times at Spaghetti Supper/Sock Hop

2010-04-15T18:14:00.009-04:00

A good time was enjoyed by all who came to the Spaghetti Supper / Sock Hop. Thanks to the food pantry volunteers who cooked a delicious meal and the youth group who are excellent wait staff. The hall was full of excitement. We had some great competitors in the hoola hoop contest and bubble gum blowing contest. Ages varied from 4-64! The Red Sox tickets were won by Peter Phillip from our parish! By the end of the evening we had offers of donations for our next event. Suggestions were made for 50's, 60's, 70's and 80's music next time.

Feinstein Million Dollar Give-a-Way Ongoing

2010-04-12T14:05:00.002-04:00

This month and last we are again participating in the national Feinstein Million Dollar Give-a-Way for food pantries. The dollar amount given to each food pantry is based on a proportion earned by the total number of points reported by each food pantry during March and April. We count every item donated for those two months. Each item donated is worth one donation point. Every dollar donated is worth one donation point. Last year we had 12,000 donations and received a check for $293.00. For the month of March this year we are at 7,985 in donations. This is a great start ... thank you. April is our last month for the program this year. Your generosity will be greatly appreciated.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-04-07T16:23:00.007-04:00

We've been busy. During the month of March a total of 645 families received 2,580 bags of groceries at our pantry. Within these families there were 559 children. During March we also served 967 lunches, distributed bags and bags of clothing and also many baby supplies.

Our volunteers (like those shown above) donate a considerable number of hours helping to keep the pantry open and running smoothly. Without their dedication each week it would be almost impossible to serve the families that come in. We are also very thankful to the generous people who support the pantry through donations. Additionally, our new computer system is very efficient, and is more time saving than we had ever expected.

Spaghetti Dinner and Sock Hop

2010-04-06T06:23:00.002-04:00

Saturday April 10th is our parish’s first annual Spaghetti Supper/Sock Hop to be sponsored by the food pantry and youth group. There will be a wonderful dinner followed by dancing to music from the 50s and 60s. There will be prizes given for the best male and female 50's costume. There will also be a hool-a-hoop competition and bubble blowing contest. Tickets are $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for children (12 and under) and $25 for a family of four or more. They will be available from all youth group members and food pantry volunteers. So get out your poodle skirts and saddle shoes!

A Place of Hope

2010-03-19T13:57:00.003-04:00

Photo by John Sladewski

When Fred Despres (shown in center foreground above) and Jorge Almeida (in center rear above) came to the Saint Anthony Food Pantry to help distribute the 450 turkeys given out last November for Thanksgiving they were continuing the volunteer support of the pantry they both had been providing for many years.

Fred, a retired teamster who uses the skills learned from his employment in loading, unloading and moving pantry food and supplies, remembers that four years ago when he first started volunteering at the pantry some things such as the process for picking up food in Boston and the number of persons receiving aid were very different then they are now. He also notes that some other things, such as the desire of volunteers like himself to help others, are very much the same as they have always been. When asked about his involvement in the pantry Fred smiles and says that “it's a good way to keep busy”. Anyone who hears Fred and sees that smile knows that “keeping busy” at the pantry means a lot to Fred. He has strong memories associated with Saint Anthony's and with the neighborhood – he and his wife Jacqueline, who also works at the pantry, were married at the church and Fred's father had a variety store just two blocks away. Fred's sister Lorraine works at the pantry as well making Fred's time at Saint Anthony's very much a family activity.

Jorge has been working at the pantry for more than five years. He first came to the pantry because he needed food like so many others in New Bedford do. Jorge had learned about the the pantry from a friend and once he had visited he quickly decided he wanted to help. He saw the pantry as a place to serve others. Jorge's day at the pantry starts early with helping to set up tables for distributing food and continues with doing cooking preparation for the lunch that is provided each Thursday. Perhaps because of his original reason for coming to the pantry Jorge seems to share a particular empathy with those who come each week – he remembers seeing a lot of people come and go as their lives change. He remembers in particular one visitor who was very discouraged with life. Pantry volunteers went with that visitor into the church where they prayed together. Jorge feels that “We are more than a food pantry – we are a place of hope.” He remembers the number of persons coming to the pantry when he first started working here and when observing the growing numbers of people we serve now Jorge is pleased to be able to help address the increasing need for food and hope.

Many other volunteers support the efforts of the Saint Anthony Food Pantry. Their stories, as well stories of the visitors to the pantry, may inspire you to help. If you feel you can help, please call the coordinator of the food pantry, Paula Briden, at 508-993-1691, or email her at bpaula1@comcast.net .

To Give Is to Receive

2010-03-15T10:20:00.001-04:00

Last Christmas a woman who came to volunteer at the pantry took off the coat she was wearing and gave it to a woman who was standing in line waiting for food. When asked how she was going to get home on such a cold day without a coat she replied, "I have a warm car and another coat at home, that woman had none." This is just a snapshot of the type of people you are helping through our Food Pantry.

Maybe you don't have an extra coat but do you have an extra jar of peanut butter or box of cereal to give to someone who is hungry? And don't forget we are again participating in the Feinstein Million Dollar Give a Way for food pantries, which earned us $293.00 last year.

Feinstein Million Dollar Give-a-Way

2010-03-06T11:35:00.002-05:00

During March and April we will again participate in the Feinstein Million Dollar Give a Way for food pantries. We count every item donated for those two months. Last year we had 12,000 donations and received a check for $293.00.

Spaghetti Supper / Sock Hop

2010-03-06T11:34:00.002-05:00

Saturday April 10th is our first annual Spaghetti Supper/Sock Hop to be sponsored by the food pantry and youth group. A wonderful dinner followed by dancing to music from the 50s and 60s. There will be prizes given for the best male and female 50s costume. There will also be a hool-a-hoop competition and bubble blowing contest. . Tickets are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children (12 and under). They will be available from all youth group members and food pantry volunteers. So get out your poodle skirts and saddle shoes!

Donations Needed

2010-03-06T11:32:00.001-05:00

Its been a long cold winter, still seeking donations of warm clothing and as always nonperishable food. Thanks for what you have given and thanks as well for what you will give.

Overview

2010-03-04T18:11:00.008-05:00

St. Anthony of Padua during his lifetime had a great love for the poor and served them as if he were serving Christ. He has been invoked for centuries as a special patron of feeding the poor and needy. In many cities, there sprung up the tradition of “St. Anthony’s bread,” giving bread to those who are hungry.

Here, each Thursday, from noon to 1:30 in the afternoon, our parish food pantry continues that tradition in the St. Anthony parish hall. While we are open every Thursday, our clients come on an every other week basis based on the first letter of their last name. A-L, then M-Z the following week.

Over the past years, our food pantry has continued to grow. Without the support and donations of so many caring people and companies, along with the dedication of our volunteer team, this growth in providing to those in need would not be possible.

In addition to providing those who participate a bag full of hearty staples and more to take home with them, we provides a warm meal of soup, sandwiches, pastries and drinks.

St. Anthony Food Pantry also hosts other special services for our clients.

Routinely, the Southcoast Mobile Van offers free blood pressure, cholesterol evaluations, as well as blood sugar readings to our participants within the Parish Hall.

Religious classes are offered every Thursday from 11:30 A.M.-12 P.M. The classes are offered in both English and Spanish.

A religious table is available offering our clients rosary beads, prayer booklets, and other religious items and religious material.

We also host The Baby Project. This independently run Project, requires that those who participate first register as a food pantry participant.

Volunteers Always Needed

2010-03-04T18:10:00.005-05:00

To run a food pantry that helps so many families requires many volunteers doing many things. Among other things, there is a need for people to help:

Pack and unpack groceries
Sign in new participants
Manage crowd control at the door.
Prepare and serve soup, sandwiches, pastries and drinks.
Pick up food each month at the Greater Boston Food Bank’s New Bedford location.
Clean
Do various types of paperwork.

On Thursdays, many volunteers arrive at 10 am to get ready to open the food pantry. Others arrive later and help to close up the food pantry at 2 and clean afterward. Many help out the whole session. Volunteers are welcome to contribute as much time as they can. To volunteer, you may simply come by on a Thursday. You may also call the director of the food pantry, Paula Briden, at 508-993-1691, or email her at bpaula1@comcast.net .

Other Opportunities to Help

2010-03-04T18:09:00.006-05:00

Our food pantry has been blessed by the assistance of many business, churches and St. Vincent de Paul conferences. For example:

Parishes — In addition to the contributions of St. Anthony’s parishioners, who bring non-perishable food to the weekend Masses, other parishes help out. One notable one among others is St. Mary’s Parish in New Bedford, which collects twenty cases of food every eight weeks, helps out with thanksgiving turkey vouchers, with presents for poor families at Christmas and more.
St. Vincent de Paul Conferences — Vincentians from the Cape routinely bring bread for distribution.
Bakeries — Various local bakeries bring by surplus bread or donuts for distribution.
Schools — Youngsters at local schools, like St. Anthony’s elementary schools, take up regular collections of food for the needy at the pantry.
Religious orders — Various men and women religious in the area bring by boxes of food which have been given to them that go beyond their needs.

Our food pantry is always in need of more food to be able to help out the poor. If you belong to one of these groups or others and may be able to help, please call the director of the food pantry, Paula Briden, at 508-993-1691, or email her at bpaula1@comcast.net .

Monetary Donations

2010-03-04T18:08:00.001-05:00

The food pantry is always in need of money, to supplement donated food, to provide for soups and sandwiches, to purchase needed equipment for food and equipment storage. Donations can always be mailed to the St. Anthony’s Food Pantry, 1359 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA, 02746 or made online by clicking here

If You Need Food

2010-03-04T18:07:00.003-05:00

We provide food, on an every other week basis, to members of the New Bedford community. New people are welcome to come any week to register and receive food.

We follow the guidelines of the Greater Boston Food Bank, which requires that those receiving food need to be obtaining some type of assistance from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, like

Mass Health
Food Stamps
W.I.C. (Care for Women, Infants and Children)
Fuel Assistance

Those who do not meet these criteria may still be eligible depending upon their annual gross income.

The first time a person or family comes for assistance, they need to have one form of picture identification, such as

Massachusetts Driver’s License
Medicare I.D.
Mass Health I.D.
State Picture I.D.
Passport

Families may come to receive aid each week.

Our Biblical Inspiration

2010-03-04T18:06:00.000-05:00

Jesus said to his disciples:

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left.

Then the king will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.’

Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’

And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’

Then he will say to those at his left hand, ‘You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’

Then they also will answer, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not take care of you?’

Then he will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’

And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”