The Food Pantry is Busy Helping Families Meet their Food Needs!

Our Food Pantry is serving record numbers of families and individuals. An average of 120 households use the Pantry each month. For many, the Pantry is a vital resource in their daily challenge to make ends meet. Our goal is to assist families in meeting their basic food needs, and also to help them with other resources which may eliminate their food insecurity.

Unfortunately, many families must rely on our Food Pantry for more than temporary assistance. Their very low-incomes do not change substantially enough to eliminate their need for basic food supplies. Many of those we serve earn too little to afford the cost of housing and other basic needs. A recent study concluded that a wage earner must make $15.58 per hour to afford a two-bedroom apartment in Bridgeport. The families we serve earn well below this hourly rate.

Recipients are given approximately one week's worth of food at each visit. This is mainly non-perishable foods, but we do distribute toiletries and some meat and eggs. They may use the Pantry a maximum of two times each month, and must be income eligible. Most are from Fairfield or Bridgeport. Referrals are made by our staff as well as by Fairfield Social Services and local churches, synagogues and schools. Those from Bridgeport are eligible if they are actively working toward the goal of housing stability and increased self-reliance, through our STAR Program.

Food assistance is a basic first step in helping a family out of poverty. Unfortunately, it takes many steps and a lot of support along the way.

Operation Hope's Food Pantry depends on donations of non-perishable foods and toiletries. Pantry donations are always needed and may be brought to the Pantry site at 338 Commerce Drive. Pantry donations are accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5pm.