Food is a basic human need and one of the building blocks to a good quality of life. Unfortunately, one child in every five in New London County faces hunger and 19,000 people are living below the poverty line. United Way of Southeastern Connecticut is passionate about ensuring that all people have their basic needs met, and for more than 25 years, the Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center has been working to alleviate hunger and food insecurity in our community.
The Mobile Food Pantry is a large, custom refrigerated truck that currently makes eleven monthly distribution stops at points throughout New London County. The program is a critical extension of the Food Center, allowing United Way to reach more households at-risk for food insecurity, right in their own neighborhood or town. Additionally, because the truck is refrigerated, fresh and healthy produce, dairy and proteins can be distributed.
The pantry visits areas of New London County considered "food deserts," where there is no large, retail grocery store or supermarket and/or where transportation options are limited. Residents are therefore forced to walk long distances to buy food or to purchase it at a higher price at small convenience stores.
Distribution sites are determined based on where and when people most at-risk for food insecurity can be reached. The pantry is set up for a one-two-hour distribution, is similar to a farmers' market, and has a "no questions asked" policy. Guest are asked only to bring an ID and bags or boxes to transport the food. Participation in this program does not affect eligibility in any other programs.
The Food Center helps to feed more than 21,000 people every month through its network of 81 free emergency food programs including shelters, pantries, community meal sites, child care centers, and programs for seniors. The Mobile Food Pantry helps another 1,000 households on average per month with about weeks’ worth of food through its eleven distribution sites.
Mobile Pantry distributions are located in Colchester, Groton, Jewett City, Norwich, New London, Salem, Stonington, and Taftville. For more information or to locate the nearest food distribution site, visit uwsect.org/mobilefoodpantry.
Contributions to United Way help keep both the Food Center and the Mobile Pantry stocked with nutritious food that feeds more people struggling with hunger and food insecurity. Because great things happen when we LIVE UNITED! To donate or volunteer, go to uwsect.org/give.