Food pantry initiative supports Somerset and Westport families during summer months

Under the warm glow of the Fall River City Hall, community leaders gathered to address a pressing issue that resonates deeply with many families in the area: hunger. The recent Stamp Out Hunger press event highlighted the critical role of local food pantries in supporting residents of Fall River, Somerset, and Westport, especially as summer approaches and children are out of school.

Paul, a key organizer of the food drive, passionately spoke about the importance of their work. "We act as a conduit between our communities and the vital services provided by food pantries," he explained. The need for food assistance is particularly acute during the summer months when families face increased demands for meals. Paul urged residents to participate by simply placing food outside their homes for collection, emphasizing that even small contributions can make a significant difference.

The event also celebrated a decade-long partnership with the United Way, which has been instrumental in enhancing the food drive's impact. "The bags we provide have doubled the amount of food collected," Paul noted, highlighting the effectiveness of this initiative. In previous years, the drive has successfully gathered between 50,000 and 60,000 pounds of food, but the need continues to grow. This year, they are looking to expand their support to additional food pantries, including a new request from an Episcopal church.

Kim from the United Way took the stage next, acknowledging Paul’s dedication and the collaborative spirit that has fueled this initiative for ten years. She emphasized how local efforts can amplify nationwide campaigns, making a tangible difference in the community.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the message lingered in the air: the fight against hunger is ongoing, and every contribution counts. With summer on the horizon, the call to action is clear—Fall River residents are encouraged to join in this vital effort to support their neighbors in need.