Beloved of God,
SOS.  

As I mentioned in my “A Michael Minute” this week, Jesus calls us to meet others in their suffering. Beginning tomorrow that suffering will be even greater, with more than 40 million Americans expected to see some or all of their federal food assistance cut or lost. This cutback threatens the food security of over one million folks in Massachusetts, including 337,000 children. I have heard from several of you about your concerns and ways you want to help. Now, we have been called upon by the Cape Cod Council of Churches to participate in a rapid response effort to help. I am asking for your help.

For 65 years, the Cape Cod Council of Churches has gathered congregations and other partners to meet our community’s needs. We do so through our six areas of ministry; and we do so through special initiatives during times of particular need, like now. 

The Council is preparing to receive and distribute donations and asks that you please contribute as you are able.

Starting tomorrow, nonperishable food may be dropped off at St. Mary’s in the donation boxes located in the Parish Office and in the sun porch next to Walden Hall.

You may also drop donations at these additional locations:

• The new Council (and A Baby Center) headquarters, 232 Main Street, Hyannis — Monday through Thursday, 10:00 am to 12:30 pm
  
• First Lutheran Church, 1663A Route 6A, West Barnstable (in the Fellowship Hall) — Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, 9:30 am to 1:30 pm; Wednesday, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and 5:30 to 7:00 pm; Sunday, 9:00 to 11:00 am
  

All donations will support the Hands of Hope Food Pantry, located at 49 Route 28, West Harwich, open Monday through Friday, 1:00 to 3:00 pm. Food collected will be distributed through the Pantry, which serves our neighbors from Sandwich/Mashpee through Harwich, and through our Faith Family Kitchen, providing up to nine free meals per week for each guest at our Bearse’s Way location in Hyannis.

This special collection will take place at least until Nov. 13 – longer if the shutdown continues.

Requested items include nutritious packaged nonperishable foods such as:

·     Soups

·     Rice

·     Cereal

·     Beans

·     Durable fruits (clementines, grapes, oranges, apples, plantains)

·     Durable produce (carrots, onions, potatoes, sweet potatoes, celery)

·     Individual snack items (applesauce, granola bars, packaged fruits)

·     Grocery store gift cards to purchase dairy/meats/produce/etc.

The scope of need is great. The compassionate and effective response is great – thanks to you!

In moments like this, when our neighbors are most vulnerable, the Church shows what it truly means to be the Body of Christ – to love, to serve, and to act. I know how generous and responsive this community is, and I have no doubt that together we can make a real difference for families across Cape Cod who are struggling to put food on the table.

With love in Christ,