Cheshire Food Drive Marks 40 Years

It was 40 years ago this year that the first Cheshire Food Drive was held. It wasn't meant to last four decades, but the need remains, its co-chairs say, so it continues.

And this year, to mark the anniversary, the drive, administered by the Cheshire Human Services Department, has some lofty goals: 40,000 non-perishable food items and $40,000 in cash to be used for the vouchers it distributes to families in need.

“The unpredictable economy continues to hurt a lot of families in our town,” said co-chairperson Marléna Soble. “We’re hoping to collect 40,000 individual food items and, perhaps more importantly, to raise $40,000 to fund the Food Voucher Program throughout the year.”

"The voucher program is available only to Cheshire residents in need," she said. "We like to use them for emergencies but they're a good supplement to buy perishables."

This year they will distribute 720 $40 vouchers, she said.

On Saturday, Nov. 2, and Sunday, Nov. 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. the Cheshire Food Drive will hold its annual collection of non-perishable food items on the Town Green. All donations will help stock the shelves of the Cheshire Community Food Pantry. Throughout town, individuals, schools, businesses, and places of worship are encouraged to make monetary or food donations to the Cheshire Food Drive.

“At CFD, we believe there is no more basic need than food,” said co-chairperson John Nann. “Cheshire is a very generous and caring community, and I believe that together we can ensure that no one goes to bed hungry in our town.”  

In addition to the food drive weekend, donations can be made online through Pay Pal at www.cheshirefooddrive.org. Checks made out to Cheshire Food Drive can be sent to P.O. Box 926, Cheshire, CT 06410.

To volunteer, contact Marléna Soble or John Nann at info@cheshirefooddrive.org.