Willsboro-Essex Food Shelf expands hours

WILLSBORO | The Willsboro-Essex Food Shelf recently expanded its hours of operation. Instead of just being open every Monday from 3 to 6 p.m., the food shelf, which is located in the Willsboro Visitor's Center, is now open Mondays and Fridays from 4 to 6 p.m. and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. "Since the federal government shutdown, the number of people we were assisting doubled," said Willsboro Town Clerk/Tax Collector Sue Thompson. Due to the shutdown, which started Oct. 1 and ended Nov. 12, November SNAP benefits were delayed for millions of Americans enrolled in the program, prompting them to seek other options, such as visiting their local food shelves. "We wanted to serve the people better." The food shelf posts what's available each day through its Facebook page. For instance, on Nov. 21, they had eggs, apples, and single-serving school milk cartons available. There are other non-perishable items available, too, as well as other household and personal items. "Our food shelf is committed to ensuring that no one in our community goes hungry," as stated on the food shelf's new Facebook page. "We provide free, nutritious food to individuals and families facing food insecurity, offering support with dignity, respect, and compassion." In addition to its physical location, the food shelf also serves the residents of Essex and Willsboro by assembling food baskets for holidays such as Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving. This Thanksgiving, the devoted team of volunteers filled each basket with a turkey and all the trimmings for a traditional holiday meal, including canned vegetables, canned fruit, sweet potatoes, instant potatoes, gravy mix, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. They provided not only the ingredients for a mean green bean casserole, but also cake mix and frosting for dessert. There was even a large aluminum roaster for the turkey itself. Thanks to various generous donations, the food shelf was able to provide complete Thanksgiving dinners to 32 families throughout Essex and Willsboro. "Every single can, every box, every donation, and every minute of volunteered time made a difference; this project would not have been possible without the collective effort of so many caring individuals," the food shelf recently posted on the "Town of Willsboro, NY" Facebook page. "The generosity, compassion, and community spirit shown throughout this effort remind us of what makes our town so special." The food shelf has yet to announce the sign-up time to receive a Christmas basket. However, donations will be needed for that, and contributions to the food shelf itself are always appreciated. Any and all non-perishable items are accepted and can be dropped off at either the Willsboro Visitors' Center or Willsboro Town Hall. "If you can provide, if you can donate, that would be greatly appreciated," Thompson said. "And if you or someone you know could use a little help, come see us." For more information or to donate, call 518-963-8668 ext. 1, check out the food shelf's newest Facebook page, or visit essex.cce.cornell.edu/donate.

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Willsboro-Essex Food Shelf expands hours

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