February 10, 2026 Newsletter
JANUARY UPDATE
The snow and cold in January made it a challenging month. Particularly for everyone working outside in the wind and cold, making deliveries to senior housing and guests with transportation issues, loading food into cars in the afternoon, directing traffic, greeting guests and calling guests who are late for their appointment. Despite the cold, their dedication, camaraderie and teamwork make them an example to which we can all aspire.
January food requests were down slightly from the peak in November largely because January 2 was so slow; but we still averaged 314 food requests per week and served an average of 735 family members. A total of 429 unique families with an average of 2.3 people per family used the pantry. As January was a 5 Friday month, families used the pantry an average of 3.6 times during the month. We were visited by 10 first-time families with a total of 26 family members.
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Paula Milliagan and Paula Sable
Paula Milligan (left) and Paula Sable are two dedicated volunteers who help keep the Newbury Food Pantry running smoothly behind the scenes—and on the front lines.
Paula Milligan joined the pantry after retiring three years ago through a personal connection. She is part of the inventory team, working with others to manage stock and keep shelves organized and full. She’s continually inspired by fellow volunteers, Glen and Shirley Holt, and is amazed by how well-run and efficient the pantry is.
Paula Sable began volunteering during the Covid lockdown, looking for a positive and productive way to help. She supports the pantry in many roles, including inventory, food distribution, training new volunteers, and preparing for busy Fridays. Having witnessed the pantry’s growth over the years, she’s especially impressed by the teamwork, adaptability, and welcoming culture.
Both Paulas share a deep appreciation for the strong sense of community at the pantry—one that not only supports our guests, but also shows up for volunteers when they need it most. Their message to others is simple: volunteering is meaningful, flexible, and deeply rewarding.
We are grateful for their dedication and the many ways they help serve our community!
Pantry Solar Panel Installation
Distributing over 12,000 lbs. of food each week to assist over 750 people requires a lot of storage space. With the construction of a walk-in freezer and refrigerator in 2024, in addition to 5 other freezers and 5 refrigerators, electricity bills have seen a 66% increase. Knowing that tax credits for solar projects were expiring, a team from the First Parish Newbury Food Pantry and First Parish Newbury Church began exploring the economic viability of adding solar to reduce electricity costs. Led by pantry volunteer Larry Paoletti, a variety of solar array options were discussed using cost and cost-recovery analyses to select the most cost-effective option for the food pantry. A ground based solar array comprised of 52 commercial grade, bifacial solar panels were installed. The panels are designed to generate power from both the front (direct light) as well as reflected light from under the panels. The system is capable of producing 26.6 kilowatts of AC power which will provide the majority of the electricity the pantry uses. The solar panel system began generating power on December 30th, the day it was commissioned by National Grid.
The solar panel team Included Larry Paoletti, Jane Merrow, Mary Murray and Steve Spanger (not shown in photo) standing in front of the new solar panel array.
Mary Murray and Larry Paoletti stand by as Steve Spanger throws the switch to connect the solar array to the electrical grid.
UPCOMING FUNDRAISERS
Comedy at the Grog Live Stand Up Benefit Show
Another fun night of Comedy at the Grog is coming up to benefit the Newbury Food Pantry. Mark your calendars for February 20, and be sure to order your tickets soon using the Eventbrite link below or by using the QR code in the bottom right hand corner of the ad.
Riptide Cafe and Bar on Plum Island will host a fundraiser for the Pantry on March 4th, 4-8 pm. A portion of the proceeds from food orders (eat-in or take-out) will be donated to the Pantry. Invite your friends and family for a fun evening!
LORETTA FUNDRAISER
Wednesday, February 11, 2025 starting at 5PM
Our Loretta fundraiser continues… Wednesday, February 11, 2025. Starting at 5 pm, Loretta will donate part of the proceeds to the Pantry. Plan on dinner out (take out or eat in). You'll see a lot of familiar faces as the community turns out to support our work. We suggest that you make reservations in advance.
The Greater Boston Food Bank Recognizes Us Again!
The Pantry is recognized as a “Healthy Pantry Leader”
The Greater Boston Food Bank as part of their Healthy Pantry Recognition Program 2025 has recognized the Newbury Food Pantry as a “Healthy Pantry Leader”.
Recognition as a Healthy Pantry leader is based on implementing the SWAP color coding system and:
• Improves access to nutritious food
• Supports chronic disease prevention
• Promotes dignity-centered pantry models
• Strengthens partnerships with healthcare and community stakeholders
• Builds a culture of growth and leadership across GBFB agencies
Food Drives and Donations
The West Newbury Fire Company donated 1,486 lbs of food to the pantry. Prior to delivering the goods, they sorted and dated every item. A big thanks goes to Duncan, Morgan and Ben for their kindness.
The Wolfe Club donated $2,500 from their golf club fundraiser in November. Pictured here from left to right are Greg Lewis (VP), Michael Switzer (President), Jane Merrow, Rich Lyman, and Soren Richelson from the pantry.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
As our work has expanded to help more neighbors in our community, our need for volunteers has increased. Volunteer opportunities include calling our guests to take their orders on Wednesday, staffing four shifts throughout the day on Friday to fulfill grocery orders for our guests, and assisting in the occasional Food Drive or other special projects on Saturdays.
Here is what our volunteers are saying:
"It’s a real pleasure to work in concert with such friendly, organized people. I loved the fast pace and the way the hours raced by."
"Such an awesome organization. So glad to be a part of this community effort."
"I really enjoy volunteering with you and everyone else at the pantry. It's such important work for the community and everyone is so welcoming and kind."
Come join us! Email Barbara at info@newburyfoodpantry.org to let her know you are interested.
FOOD DONATIONS
We accept food donations every Thursday from 9:30 am -1 pm. If you are not able to drop off at that time, please contact us at info@newburyfoodpantry.org or call 978-358-1077 to arrange another time.
Our most requested items include Coffee, Tea, Flour, Sugar, Baking Mixes, Cereals, Pasta Sides, Jello and Pudding Mixes, Jelly, Broths, Soups, and Toilet Paper.