Sheriff Ogden and Dukes County Deputy Sheriff's Association: Donations for Island Food Pantry
The Island Food Pantry, a non-profit focused on keeping Martha’s Vineyard hunger-free, hosted a visit from Dukes County Sheriff Robert Ogden and the Dukes County Deputy Sheriff’s Association on Thursday, May 7th. In support of the vital work the Food Pantry does to care for islanders in need, Sheriff Ogden and the Sheriff’s Association came together to make a cumulative donation of $1,750 ($1,500 coming from the DCDSA and $250 from Sheriff Ogden personally), and spoke with IFP Executive Director Kayte Morris to better understand their current need for support.
On a tour of the facility, Kayte shared that the Food Pantry had seen a 250% increase in utilization due to Covid-19 in February 2020. During the week of April 26 - May 2, they served approximately 450 families. Though their numbers have dipped as businesses begin to open up, they expect them to continue to be higher than normal for an extended period, and expressed concerns about a 2nd wave as well. Donations in the form of funds and volunteers are welcome and needed at this time.
“I want to recognize Kayte Morris, and all of the incredible volunteers and donors of the Island Food Pantry. We have an amazing network of helpers in our community, people and organizations who come together in times good and bad to support each other. The COVID-19 pandemic has put immense pressure upon crucial services like the Food Pantry, services that keep families afloat in our community”, says Sheriff Ogden. “Now is the time to continue to help, however you are able. The Deputy Sheriff’s Association and I are both donating today to support the Island Food Pantry and to keep the momentum of giving going. Whether you have time to volunteer, funds to donate to your charity of choice, or even encouragement to give- now is the time. Together, we are Island strong, and can weather this storm.”
The Island Food Pantry is open to the public Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, delivering food to approximately 90 families on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. For information about how you can help the Island Food Pantry, visit their website at http://islandfoodpantry.org/
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