The need is constant. In a typical December, service organizations and communities of faith pack up tons of holiday food baskets or serve up turkey dinners by the thousands.
But 2020 has reached an extreme. While for many it might be the year of the pandemic, it could also be the year of the food pantry as millions have turned to those organizations for help when COVID-19 restrictions have affected jobs and paychecks, making it hard to keep families fed.
On Saturday, December 19th, over 150 families reserved slots for the annual Christmas Food Basket distribution organized by SPMTDU “Sociedad Proteccion Multa de Trabajadores Unidos”, New Beginning’s Ministry and supporting sponsor Ramos Law.
Signups were up during October and November, and thousands of more families rely on other local programs, resources, and food banks.
“The need in our community – whether for donations of cash or kindness – will be with us for some time,” said Sharon Vigil organizer of the program for S.P.M.D.T.U – “Fortunately, we have seen many people stepping up with encouragement and support of time and monetary donations.”
While parts of our lives have started to return to some form of normalcy, food insecurity continues to be a major problem. It is an issue that impacts every corner of our community.
La Sociedad Proteccion Multa de Trabajadores Unidos was founded in 1900 and is the oldest surviving Hispanic Organization in the United States. This service to the community is accomplished by focusing on Cultural Preservation, Organizational Preservation, Community Engagement, and Education.