Back Packing – 67 bags –  at the Cambridge Food Pantry this morning: Sarah has chosen two foods that the guests coming to the pantry have asked for:

The first request: Hormel Canned Ham, Smoked, 5 Ounce (Pack of 12), $22.95. This choice is particularly significant as it provides a much-needed source of protein for our guests and is a fast and healthy meal for working parents (some have three jobs but can’t keep up.).

The Second: Ben’s Original Ready Rice Jasmine Rice, Easy Dinner Side, 8.5 Oz. Pouch (Pack of 6).

This is the first time the pantry has sought either of these foods; they are often requested.

Sarah treats her guests respectfully, always asks them what they want to eat, and tries to get it.

This personalized approach is what sets this program apart.

Everything we send is wanted and requested; we don’t have to wonder. Most pantries don’t have the resources to try and do that; it’s take it or leave it; they have no choice. Your support allows us to continue this unique and impactful service.

(Above photo: We purchased two large bins for the pantry. The one above is for donations that come in locally and packages that come in from the outside. The one on the side of the building is for pig farmers who can use produce too old to be served.)

You can browse the entire pantry Wish List here. FYI, prego pasta sauce is also in great demand and is hard to keep in stock. It’s also on the Wish List. Your support is appreciated and life-changing.

We start at 9:30 and work until about 11 a.m. Joan (above, with white hair) makes up the list, which details how many children, high school or lower school (high school kids get extra), and their ID number. It goes to the school tomorrow, and the parents pick it up.

The other students never knew who was getting the food. Privacy is a big deal at the pantry and is rigidly enforced.

This is the children’s shelf, where the Army of Good food is stacked and ready for the backpacks. We did a great job on soup, peanut butter, dishwashing liquid, and other things. Thank you.

The pantry work continues occasionally, if at all. Sarah, with the help of her volunteers, keeps it all together.

We did 67 bags, special ones for sugar issues and gluten.