September 9, 2025 Newsletter
AUGUST UPDATE
In August, we received and filled 1,572 requests for food assistance from a record of 440 households. Our volunteers distributed a record 52,200 lbs. of food and personal care items. They picked, packed and delivered an amazing record 7,030 bags to our neighbors who needed food assistance. Of the food we distributed in August, an amazing 37.1% was donated by our generous community including local businesses that allow us to pick up excess food, food drives and food that is dropped off on Thursdays at the pantry. Because of their generosity and the wide variety of food that is donated, our guests were able to select from over 400 different items each week in August.
Also, 20 new families with 51 family members visited the pantry for the first time. Of the 440 families who used the pantry in the 5 weeks of August, 13.6% visited once, 13.2% twice, 14.1% 3 times, 20.5% 4 times and 38.6% five times.
One trend that we are noticing is that the percentage of seniors who request food assistance continues to decline as more families with children seek food assistance. Five years ago, seniors comprised over 50 % of the people we served. Today, seniors account for 29.7%, adults for 48.7% and children for 21.6%. While 54.5% of the households we serve have a senior in the household, seniors only make up 29.7% of the people we serve, because so many seniors live alone.
ESSEX ENSMBLE CONCERT
Last Saturday, September 6, the Essex Ensemble under the direction of pantry volunteer and Oboist Andrew Price, performed a beautiful program of Handel, Mozart and Bach all while the threat of a rain storm was looming. That did not deter them or the many attendees who arrived prepared to enjoy the evening. In anticipation, our fabulous team of volunteers kicked into action and moved all of the seating from outside to inside The Barn creating a "Concert in the Round" so everyone had a good view of the performance. It was quite an accomplishment!
We are so grateful to Andrew and his ensemble of gifted musicians: Colin Davis (Violin), Susan Shipley (Violin), Stephen Dyball (Viola) and Melanie Dyball (Cello), for yet again, agreeing to entertain us at this fund raiser at Maudslay Arts Center. A big thanks to all of you ensemble members.
The night was a success. Between tickets sales and refreshments purchased we netted $4,500. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this wonderful event.
A special shout out goes to Cathy Utt and Caroline Monahan who led the charge and planned and orchestrated the entire evening. Also, thanks go to Patty Doggett and Mary Murray who set up and ran of the refreshment table. Last but not least, we thank the many volunteers who set up the "Concert in the Round", greeted and checked in attendees, and helped with the even flow of the evening.
EVENTS
Once again the Pantry volunteers sold refreshments at two annual Newbury events – the Car Show on August 15 and Newbury Days, August 16. Both events were held at Manter Field in Newbury. Alison Lehane and her husband Brian did the cooking of burgers and dogs. They were very ably assisted by a number of other pantry volunteers in the sales of all refreshments. Their efforts raised a total of $1500 for the pantry. Thank you Alison and Brian (not pictured here)!!
LORETTA FUNDRAISER
Wednesday, September 10, 2025 starting at 5PM
Our Loretta fundraiser continues… Wednesday, September 10. 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.
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.