West Hartford Food Pantry Receives Donations from Stop and Shop

The Farmington Ave. Stop and Shop has been a major supporter of the West Hartford Food Pantry for many years.

The store recently donated more than 400 boxes of food as well as a check for $1,005 to the Food Pantry, the result of the "Summer Healthy Food for Friends" campaign.

During that campaign, customers were able to purchase pre-packed boxes for $10.00 – full of items like pasta, pasta sauce, canned chicken, peanut butter, jelly, macaroni and cheese, and tuna. A donation box for other non-perishables as well as financial donations was also available near the store's exit.

"Stop and Shop is glad we are able to help the pantry by offering the boxes, accepting donations, and doing the weekly food drives for the West Hartford Food Pantry. We are glad to be part of the West Hartford community and that we are able to help our neighbors," said Store Manager David Galotti in a release.

"The community partnership we have with the Food Pantry enables us to get food to West Hartford residents in need. We are so grateful to our loyal customers and their generosity. We could not get as much food to the community as we do without them," Galotti said.

"The Pantry is grateful for the relationship we have with the Farmington Av. Stop and Shop. The Food for Friends program helps us keep our shelves stocked through out the year. The items in the $10.00 boxes are perfect for the pantry!" said Town of West Hartford Volunteer Coordinator Barbara Roberts in a release.

Roberts said that everything in the Stop and Shop pre-packaged boxes is in high demand.

"When I pass the filled donation box it confirms to me the caring community West Hartford is," said Roberts, who typically shops at the store herself. "I wish I had the opportunity to thank each Stop and Shop customer for their generous donations. I am the recipient of the smiles and hugs from the people who visit the Pantry. It is important for the donors to know that the individuals and families that visit the Pantry are so appreciative and thankful," she said.

"The store is always welcoming to scouts, faith and community groups who conduct food drives at the store to benefit the Pantry," said Roberts.

Stop and Shop has been holding a "Food For Friends Holiday" campaign which is coming to a close, and a donation will be made in the New Year.