| August 9, 2023
Dear Stephen and Dolores,
Did you know that The Pantry has moved into our new home at 341 West Central St. in Franklin? The new space is a dream come true, thanks to the dedication and commitment of caring people like you who have spent ten years supporting, planning, and designing our new home!
At the same time, The Pantry has experienced a dramatic increase in demand for our programs and services. In June of 2022, we provided food, household products, and personal care items to 298 households; in June of 2023, we assisted 367 households. Last year, we enrolled one or two new clients per week. In the first two weeks in our new building, we enrolled 13 new clients and have enrolled more than 45 since then.
Increased demand has occurred at the same time that we are all experiencing increased costs of everything from food, to housing, to medical care. Not only have our clients' budgets been squeezed, but The Pantry's has as well. Donations of goods from community members are down, and sometimes we can't buy what we need through our membership in the Greater Boston Food Bank because their donations are down too.
The Pantry needs your help now more than ever before!
When we opened our doors to clients a few weeks ago, one of them remarked to one of our volunteers, "Those lights look like halos, and all of you are angels for doing this for us." That's what all of this is about: helping our neighbors in their moments of need in our expanded warm, welcoming, and dignified space.
We have reached 56% of our $3.5 million campaign goal to raise funds for the purchase and renovation of our building, enhance our client programs and services, and create a rainy-day fund for future building expenses. We are now opening up the campaign to the whole community - and we hope that you will join this effort today!
We are deeply grateful for your support, and can not help our neighbors in need without you!
If you wish to support our continuing programs and services with a donation, please click here today!
If you donate to the campaign today, 100% of your donation will be matched by one of our treasured Pantry Angels - up to $25,000!!!
If you wish to contribute to our campaign, please click here today!
Thank you! | 
