Once again, the Army of Good saved the day by rushing to provide enough soup to fill the empty shelves in time for service. Sarah says “thank you,” so do I.

(Experiment: The most urgent item of the day is the food pantry, which is entirely out of size four diapers. This is the item in most desperate need today:

Huggies Size 4 Diapers, Skin Essentials Baby Diapers, Size 4 (22-37 lbs, 20 Count, $13.79.  This is a nightmare for mothers. Please  help if you can.)

The pantry work is a tonic for me; it allows me to feel good about the country and what is happening here. I’ve always considered America a nation of good and generous spirit, and you all are reminding me that this is the truth. Helping the pantry feels good, and we are sending out a signal that we care for our neighbors and those who need help through no fault of their own. So, thanks again.   I buy something on the Cambridge Pantry Amazon Wish List whenever I’m low or can’t sleep. It works.

Today, Sarah continues to work to fill three shelves of banking supplies, currently depleted. She is seeking help in support for three items in her Comfort Food In The Rough Winter campaign, making life even more challenging for the people who come to the pantry for help; more people than ever are showing up for help:

Sarah looks for the healthiest (and consistently more expensive) foods when she can. She also asks the members what they wish for and tries to honor their requests rather than bullying them and telling them what to eat, which seems like a familiar nutritionist’s idea. One of the members’ favorite items is muffin mixes for breakfast. The kids love them, and they’re easy to make.

Here are the ones most requested:

Betty Crocker Buttermilk Pancake and Waffle Mix, 6.75 oz, Pack of 9, $11.49.

Betty Crocker Chocolate Chip Muffin Mix, 6.5 Oz, Pack of 9, $13.41.

Betty Crocker Triple Berry Muffin Mix, 6.5 Pack of 9, $13.49.

We are filling up these shelves; there is a big rush in the cold. Thanks so much.

Skip the “news” and read the Cambridge Pantry Food Wishes List instead. It’s a tonic.

Please consider sending a message of support to the bloody but unbowed volunteers of the Cambridge Food Pantry. Your messages are rolling in, and believe me, they make a difference. They work quietly and without compensation. This shows them that people know what they are doing.