Cape Henlopen Food Basket

Sometimes I am floored by what surrounds me that goes unnoticed. I have worked at the Cape Henlopen Food Basket for two years now and in recent months I have seen the need rise drastically to feed families in this area. It seems like such an affluent area and yet the Food Basket serves about 175 families each month. (approximately 550 people)

It is difficult for me to give some of the families what they are entitled to knowing that the freezers there are nearly empty and they are not going to get very many main dish items. Last year around Thanksgiving we had some frozen turkeys to hand out and what a smile that brought from all who received one. This past year, there were none and I felt bad about it and went and bought some to donate. As Easter approaches, I thought it would be wonderful if perhaps I had some canned hams to donate, should the freezers again be lacking. Many other items fly off the "free" shelf ( 7 per family.) They love to choose pancake syrup, catsup, salmon, tuna, baby formula, shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes.

I asked the deacons if I could place a basket in the hallway and ask people to donate items that I've mentioned. They agreed that this could be something that we could all enjoy participating in. Also, for young families I think it is an excellent way to involve your children and teach them that there are many less-fortunate people around us and that we can help them in this way. Feel free to speak to me about this. I am willing to collect these items and deliver them personally. I will be glad to partner with others in this effort in the name of friends at NCPC.

Thanks for whatever you decide you can do. Also FYI, next door to the Food Basket (which is behind Jiffy Lube on Route 1) is the New Life Thrift Store. We have other members of our church who volunteer there and it is a great place to donate furniture, household items, clothing and such. They will also give tax-deductible receipts.

Pat Hudson