An avalanche of Thanksgiving side foods, a tangible result of the Army Of Good Compassion, is en route to the Cambridge Food Pantry. The first order is expected to arrive later this week and will undoubtedly be huge.

I want to capture their arrival and unpacking in photos, a visual testament to the generosity of those who contributed. This was a big deal for the Army of Good, and I want to beat their drums a bit.

Kyle, a young volunteer at the Pantry, has become a friend of mine and a hero in the pantry community. His recent act of loyalty is a testament to his character. When a cake meant for a pantry fund-raising dinner was almost taken by a passerby, Kyle didn’t hesitate to act.

Kyle, who solely took the cake, could not let it go without permission. He ran outside and asked if they had asked permission to take it; the answer was no.

They didn’t need the food for themselves or their family; the taker was going to an event and wanted to bring something.

Kyle was having none of it. He got the cake and marched back in triumph. He told the cake remover that it was for people who needed the food and had permission, and she had no business taking it. He brought it back in.

I’ve got to get him a plaque or trophy. He is one of the nicest people I know, but he is direct when he needs to be. He’s devoted to the food pantry. Feel free to message him on the Amazon check checkout page.

I appreciate talking with him and taking his picture when I can. He unpacked the first wave of Thanksgiving sidings, put them on the table, and let me know they had arrived, then waited for me to get there. He’s a good man, a hard worker, and has a great sense of humor.

Sue and Kyle came to the car to meet Zinnia, who was thrilled to see them. I wondered if she knew they had been opening food boxes.

Local farmers play a crucial role in supporting the Food Pantry. They bring produce they can’t sell on a daily basis and deposit it in what’s affectionately known as the Pig Box (purchased by the Army of Goods). Kyle and his mother, Kim, are often there to ensure the box is clean, washing and inspecting the produce before bringing the best inside. The food they provide is always popular and greatly appreciated. I have a hunch I’ll be back there tomorrow.