To the Editor:

Firefighters from all five of Newtown's fire companies will be participating in the "Fill The Fire Truck" campaign for Newtown's FAITH Food Pantry. Local firefighters and trucks will be outside Big Y and Stop & Shop, Saturday, November 18, from 9 am to 2 pm. So, when you see the fire trucks in the parking lot and are reminded of donating to our local FAITH Food Pantry, here is a sampling of what the pantry truly needs to stock for every day, not just the holidays.

Fresh fruits and veggies are always needed and a hit. Canned potatoes and fruit, beef stew, canned chili, beans, pasta sauce, and Chef Boyardee items are great, too. Cereal is always needed, but kid-friendly is requested… there is already an abundance of oatmeal and Cheerios stocked and available. Boxes of complete pancake mix and bottles of syrup are wonderful for meals and, of course, coffee is always in demand - Never can have too much coffee!

Lunches need to be made for kids going to school and parents heading to work. Peanut butter and jelly as well as condiments like mayo and mustard for sandwiches need to be stocked. Healthy snacks, cookies, crackers, and granola bars are awesome for lunch boxes. Juice boxes and bottles of juice are needed. Small bottles of vegetable and olive oils, boxed cakes, canned frosting and brownie mix are luxury items for the pantry to stock and distribute.

Everyone needs to clean their clothes and dishes: don't forget the small bottles of laundry detergent and dishwashing soap. We all know any type of paper good is needed; paper towels, toilet paper, napkins, paper plates, etc. You name it, if it is donated, it will be used. Hygiene items are needed as well.

Whether you are making a quick stop at the grocery store or doing your weekly shopping for your family to fill your every day or holiday table, if you can spare some dollars and buy items for FAITH Food Pantry, know that you will be helping your neighbors in town less fortunate than you. Items of course are not limited to the above suggestions, but listed are everyday items that families need and use. People need supplies every day, not just around the holidays; your donation is always appreciated year-round. Remember to always check expiration dates as well.

Once you have purchased a donation, it can be dropped off at The Newtown Bee, 5 Church Hill Road; Cyrenius Booth Library, 25 Main Street; or at FAITH Food Pantry, 31 Pecks Lane, during their regular hours: Tuesday, 10 to noon, and Thursday, 6 to 7:30 pm. Our Labor Day food drive was a great success, but shelves now need to be replenished.

Sherri S. Baggett

26 Hall Lane, Newtown         November 15, 2017