Gemma E. Moran United Way Labor Food Center 

According to a U.S. Census Bureau study, more than 15,000 people in southeastern Connecticut are living below the poverty level. The Gemma E. Moran United Way Labor Food Center is making a difference for the hungry in southeastern Connecticut.

Last year, The Food Center distributed more than 1.5 million pounds of food through more than 80 free food sites which in turn helped provide meals and snacks, at no cost, to those in need throughout New London County. During the Thanksgiving holiday alone, 3,500 turkeys and 104,000 pounds of food were provided to the community through these sites.

The Food Center is an official Subsidiary Distribution Organization (SDO). This status ensures a partnership with the Connecticut Food Bank in East Haven, the largest food bank in the state, to provide a product allocation based on poverty levels as determined by the census.

In 1999, the Gemma E. Moran United Way Labor Food Center celebrated a grand re-opening at its current location at 374 Broad Street in New London. The Food Center's location was made possible by a grant from the state, thanks to the lobbying efforts of Representatives Wade Hyslop, Jr., Andrea Stillman, Nancy De Marinis, Lenny Winkler and Senator Melodie Peters. It was refurbished by volunteers - skilled union workers of the Metal Trades Council, Southeastern Connecticut Central Labor Council, MDA-United Auto Workers Local 571, Teamsters Union Local 493 and Norwich-New London Building and Construction Trades Council, in partnership with United Way. Electric Boat provided the paint for the entire facility. In July, 2001 Dominion/Millstone Power Station made a generous donation of $100,000 for a new roof at the Food Center.

The Food Center is a time-tested partnership between United Way, Labor and the entire community that works. Your continued support of United Way assures the success of this highly efficient and cost-effective program. If your organization is a food distribution site and would like to participate or if your company is interested in holding a food drive, please call the Food Center at (860) 444-8050.