What a month it has been! Near record snowfall and low temperatures late in the month made it necessary to pivot to serving our clients inside the church’s sanctuary. We can tolerate a lot outdoors, but a foot of snow finally made us come up with a different solution. However, our amazing team of volunteers pulled the transition off without a hitch. We typically like to set up outside because it offers us more space and greater ability to offer specialty items like knitted hats and scarves donated by local people performing acts of kindness. However, when the snow hit, we had to adapt to the more limited space inside the church. We then focused on giving out the essentials every family needs.
An amazing antidote to the bleak weather- David Janeway’s concert at the Jazz Forum on the 22nd. David has been a major supporter of the pantry. This is the third fundraiser he arranged for us. The event was sold out- no wonder with two Grammy award winning musicians and a rotating lineup of highly accomplished performers. The owners of the Jazz Forum, Mark Morganelli and wife, Ellen Prior were also gracious to loan their fine club’s space for the event, with no fee to us! It was a night to remember.
Dobbs Ferry High School juniors organized a fundraiser in front of Stop & Shop and visited our pantry to deliver cash and food donations. They were joyful and enthusiastic in giving their time and efforts on our behalf. So wonderful to see our youth making an impact on their community.
And of course we always give a huge shout out to our dearest supporters, Scarsdale Women’s Club, United Methodist of Ardsley, Beth Shalom Temple and Zion Episcopal Church in Dobbs Ferry. These incredible men and women have given so much over the years. We could not do what we do each week without them. We are ever so appreciative!
Mom’s Organic, Panera, Sunshine bagel, The Shop and our local Stop and Shop make a difference as well.
And on a somber note, our beloved Co-Director, Donna Assumma has been MIA for the month due to a fall. She is recovering from a broken shoulder bone and will be out for awhile. We all wish her a quick and full recovery. We really miss her energy and laughter! Can’t wait to see you back in the trenches Donna!
Wishing you all a great New Year,
Vera Halpenny, Co-Director
Dobbs Ferry Food Pantry 