Register O'Donnell Announces 2025 Holiday Food Drive
November 12th through December 18th
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| 2025 Holiday Food Drive Nov 12 through Dec 18 |
Many individuals and families in Norfolk County are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities like food, especially during the holiday season, when the pressure to provide for loved ones intensifies. In response, Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell is encouraging residents to support the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, which begins Wednesday, November 12th and continues through Thursday, December 18th.
"There is no doubt that Norfolk County is a desirable place to live and work," said Register O'Donnell. "However, many people who live in the communities of this county are facing challenging circumstances. This year, we have seen a growing demand for food assistance, and it is essential that we come together as a community to support those in need. By participating in the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, we can make a meaningful difference this holiday season."
According to the latest statistics from Project Bread, 37% of households in Massachusetts are considered food insecure. Rising costs for housing and groceries are key contributors to this troubling trend.
"Community donations are the lifeblood of the food pantry," said Deborah Devine, Executive Director of the Ecumenical Community Food Pantry of Norwood. "Every can of soup or box of pasta donated provides lifesaving nutrition to our neighbors."
The Greater Boston Food Bank reports that child-level food insecurity—where parents must reduce or alter the food their children eat due to financial constraints—affected 43% of households with children in Massachusetts in 2024.
"As the holidays approach, the need for food assistance becomes even more urgent," Register O'Donnell added. "Higher household expenses, including heating fuel and food costs, are placing additional strain on families. These rising costs disproportionately affect some Norfolk County residents, leaving them worried about how they'll meet their food needs. Let's be mindful this Thanksgiving that others may need our help."
Donations of non-perishable food items can be dropped off at the Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High Street in Dedham, Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM. A donation bin will be available in the lobby. Suggested items include canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products.
"The generosity of people is just amazing," said Ann Toland, Co-Director of the Marge Crispin Center in Braintree. "Community donations are immensely important."
If you're unable to visit the Registry of Deeds in person, you can find a food pantry near you by visiting the Registry's website at www.norfolkdeeds.org.
"Working together, we can truly make a huge difference as the Thanksgiving and holiday season begins," concluded Register O'Donnell. "By supporting one another and being mindful of those in need, we can help ease the burden of food insecurity, because no one should go hungry, especially during this time of year. I encourage everyone to embrace the true spirit of Thanksgiving by showing compassion and generosity toward all."
To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.
