IPSWICH — As the impact of COVID-19 continues, many people in Ipswich and the surrounding communities are facing significant challenges around food insecurity.
To help address this issue, The Ipswich Family YMCA is partnering again with the Ipswich Business Roundtable (IBR), The Open Door, Acord Food Pantry, and the local elementary schools for the second annual “Neighbors To Tables.”
This community-wide program supports those needing food assistance. It also raises awareness of the problem at a time of year when food assistance can be scarce.
The Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce joins this year to broaden the reach of the program.
Organizers said residents can support the effort by making a $10 donation at any participating business or at the Ipswich Family YMCA. The donation will provide a family in need with a grocery gift card. Donors will receive a discount card that can be used at any of the participating businesses.
The group will also be collecting cereal from May 2 to 13 at the Ipswich, Rowley, and Essex elementary schools.
Spearheaded by the Ipswich Y Teen Board, drop-off collection boxes will be located in the lobby of the schools.
“We’re really happy to once again be able to bring this opportunity to the community as a way to provide food assistance to our neighbors who need help,” said Chris Bevilacqua, executive director of the Ipswich Family Y.
“While circumstances for so many continue to be challenging in many ways, the Y is committed to remaining a source of support to the community in any way we can,” he added.
Last year, the Open Door and Acord food pantries provided more than 300,000 pounds of food to more than 1,100 people, representing close to 800 families.