The need for food, household goods and other services has never been greater in Seneca County, but local businesses, Civic organizations and churches have been responding generously to help fill the wide gap. At a time of overall funding cuts, it continues to be difficult for the House of Concern to keep up with greater demand.
The response from the Seneca County Community has been most encouraging. In addition to the $1500 check from the Lt. Cyrus Garnsey VFW, the HOC has recently received a $3,000 donation from Wal-Mart at their Grand opening of the new superstore and a $1,000 check from the Seneca Falls Rotary.
Many groups have also held food drives including the VFW, Rotary, NYCC, ITT/Goulds and others. This Fall there were occasions when Food Pantry supplies dwindled to the point of needing to go out and buy supplies, which put a heavy strain on finances, but the response of the community has helped keep the organization in the black.
Though a short term crisis was averted, the need for food and services provided by the House of Concern continue to grow and more volunteers are needed to keep the day-to-day operations of the food bank and thrift store running smoothly.
As the winter heating season begins, the number of families struggling to provide the bare necessities will rise even more, so the ongoing community support is absolutely essential to keep the Food Bank shelves full.
Since proceeds from the Thrift Store also support the work of the House of Concern, supporters are encouraged to come in and take advantage of the great bargains provided by the store. These days, everyone is looking for bargains, and purchases from the Thrift store provide a socially and environmentally responsible way to save money while providing support for the vital activities of the House of Concern.
A huge “Thank You” to the individuals and organizations that have kept us going in tough times.