The Ridgefield Food Pantry is in need of supplies, and Ridgefield Life Scout Jack Shields has organized a concert Saturday, May 2, the same day as the next Rotary Club food drive.
The concert, called Rockin’ for the Food Pantry, is set for 7 p.m. at Jesse Lee Memorial United Methodist Church’s Martin Hall, 207 Main Street.
Admission will be at least two non-perishable food items, or personal care items.
Rotarians will be outside Stop & Shop Saturday collecting food and cash donations for the pantry as well.
Social services head tells Rotary of need
The Rotary Club of Ridgefield recently invited Tony Phillips, director of social services, as a dinner speaker. Phillips talked about various programs and services his team is offering to individuals and families in need of assistance in Ridgefield.
Kristina Kelly, club secretary and officer of the Rotary Club of Ridgefield, presented Mr. Phillips with a check for $5,000 for the emergency fund for the Social Services Department. The Rotary Club requested that the funds support fuel assistance.
Phillips said, “While I cannot identify those individuals who received that financial assistance, you can be assured that it made a difference to them during this cold, long winter.” He added, “Thank you for caring to help our neighbors.”
During his talk, Phillips said the town’s food pantry is currently in short supply of essential items and that the demand is insatiable. “The late spring and summer months are difficult times for the food pantry, with many regular donors out of town, and this year is certainly no exception.”
Items that are currently in short supply include coffee, canned fruit, cereal, laundry detergent, and toilet paper. The town’s food pantry is open five days per week at Town Hall and is accepting all donations during the town’s regular business hours.
“I am requesting that your Rotary Club of Ridgefield and your members donate directly to the food pantry and let your friends and neighbors know about our critical need,” Phillips said.