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Hunger Heroes: Debbie is Keeping Her Mother's Legacy Alive

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:32:58 GMT

Vertical Church is an agency partner with Connecticut Foodshare and orders food for many pantries they oversee across the city of New Haven and nearby neighborhoods.

One of those programs is a monthly pop-up food pantry at Atwater Senior Center, where Debbie and other volunteers have been in service to their neighbors since before the pandemic.

As morning activities like coffee and games of dominoes take place, volunteers set up tables of food for the distribution. Eggs, meat, fruits and vegetables, snacks, and pantry staples are displayed for neighbors to choose from when their shopping time begins. The seniors who rely on Atwater Senior Center for support and community are grateful to feel a little financial relief from this free grocery boost.

Debbie shared, “They know me, and they smile…they warm up because they know me, they see my face all the time. They bring it in and we set up the tables when it comes in. We have a little system here that when people come, we ask them what they want. It's like an assembly line when we get started here. We have certain tables that we manage, and we work together. I'm just moving and making sure we have enough on the table, keep replenishing the layout of the food. By the time we're finished, it's time for lunch for them. ”

Debbie keeps her mother’s legacy – and her love for Atwater Senior Center – alive by helping her neighbors.

“My mom had just finished her radiation treatments for breast cancer, and my mother was never social. She did go to church, you know, did a little few things at church. She never wanted to go out, very shy. I told her I was bringing her here, I said, Mom, just check it out. You don't have to join. When we left, she had signed up as a member. She learned how to make ceramic jewelry, and paint, too. She was so into it, and she brought all these things home. I was so proud of her. My mother loved it. She came faithfully Monday through Friday, and she became a volunteer passing out the lunches. It brightened her life so much. She’s been gone for 15 years now. When she started coming here, she was in her 80s. She passed away at 89. This place brought her a lot of hope, a lot of joy.”

“I've been living in this community now for 40 years. I love it, you know. When my church mentioned doing a food distribution here, it was in my heart to do it for my mom, and it was right in my neighborhood. I wanted to do something…in my immediate community. My hand went up. I said, I want to do it in memory of my mom.”

In addition to providing help during the pop-up pantry at the senior center, Debbie sorts bread at Vertical Church on Mondays to prepare for the many food distributions across New Haven. Comfortable with sharing her talent and compassion in many ways, Debbie has also been a member of Witnesses to Hunger since the New Haven advocacy program began in 2014. Debbie's not just staying busy, she’s recreating the joy her mom felt for many years in a community that welcomed her with open arms.

She is also helping her own friends and neighbors navigate food insecurity, “I have a friend who I'm very close to. She's like a sister. I get her food now because she's a senior and take it to her. She doesn't come out…because she can't walk. I was grocery shopping for her, but now her son is taking care of her.”

Debbie’s heart and compassion keep her going, “There are so many people who are food insecure. You know, I'm going to keep doing this until I can't do it anymore.”

Meet Claudette

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:58:19 GMT

Claudette volunteers three days a week at a community kitchen and shelter system in the Rockville neighborhood of Vernon.

Using food provided by Connecticut Foodshare, she helps prepare and serve meals to the guests. Claudette has built a special connection with the neighbors she serve s, and also receives a warm welcome when she needs to use the services at the pantry as well.

"You become a family here, you know everybody's name. Everybody is a human being and they deserve a smile. They deserve a warm meal."

Meet LaToya and Unique

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:52:53 GMT

When our neighbors were impacted by the government shutdown and SNAP disruption, our team helped spread the word about our mobile pantry texting schedule and other locations they could find food resources.

We met LaToya and her bubbly 8-year-old daughter, Unique, who felt lucky to be able to shop with her mom because school was closed for Election Day.

Mom shared, “I came to the mobile pantry because I have two children and they cut our SNAP benefits. It's helped me a lot. Just getting food in the house, making sure your kids are good...you guys are amazing."

Unique showed off her favorite food from the shopping that day, macaroni and cheese, as mom was visible relieved.

"I mean, they gave me things that I didn't even think that they were going to give me. The bread comes in handy. The onions, I needed. Everything in there I basically needed. I can make a meal out of it. My daughter loves macaroni and cheese, she’ll just make it and eat it all."

Meet Ariana

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:44:18 GMT

We met Ariana, a single mom of two children, at a Connecticut Foodshare mobile food pantry in Willimantic during the government shutdown in November 2025.

Working full-time as a manager at a well-known fast food restaurant, this single mom still faces financial challenges. Like parents do, she puts her children first by coming to the pantry to get the free, healthy food for her family.

“I have two kids, I’m a single mom. I work full-time but it’s still not enough. I receive SNAP but for now with the government shut down, we’re not getting anything so I’m struggling a little bit with food. I’m trying to just get anything I can for me and my kids. My daughter is seven and my son is two. I just appreciate it. Definitely a help for me!"

When she learned that she can visit any, and as many, mobile food pantries as she needs, she felt relief. Knowing support was available made her feel more optimistic about her financial situation.

"I’m a mom so I just got to figure it out, we never go without figuring things out. I’ll spend my last dollars on my kids just to feed them. Every little thing helps and everyone’s going through a lot, so this is definitely a big help for everybody who doesn’t have anything right now. Definitely a help for me because you know, it’s the beginning of a new month and we have no food in the house right now."

Meet Michelle, Neighbor Council Member

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:31:12 GMT

Michelle, a therapist in Northwest Connecticut, works with people who are food insecure.

She recently joined Connecticut Foodshare's Neighbor Council so she could advocate for her clients and community.

“I decided to join the Neighbor Council to learn more about how we distribute food in Connecticut and to empower myself with that information so I can be an advocate."

Michelle came to the Torrington mobile food pantry to see firsthand what her clients might experience, and to bring food back for one of them, hoping to encourage them to visit on their own.

"This is my first time [and my impression is] how efficient it is, and how many options there are, especially fruits and vegetables. I'd recommend this, and I'd do it even more now. I do have people who access the regular food pantry, but now I see how much produce they can get here and that's really important."

Meet Tiffany

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:10:14 GMT

When we first met Tiffany, she was a full-time student living in a shelter in Torrington.

She came to the neighborhood community soup kitchen for meals between classes, and on the day we met her she sat down to a warm lunch of turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy..

“I'd go hungry during the day. I know I can come here during the week and on the weekends. They always have food for us. People actually care here."

Tiffany found much more than food at this soup kitchen, she found community - and it made all the difference in helping her get on her feet. She now has her own apartment and is working while finishing her degree.

"I'd had enough of that situation. I just want to be a good parent and that starts with taking care of myself, taking care of my mental health and making sure I am healthy."

Meet Kay

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:56:08 GMT

Kay started volunteering at a New London food pantry during the pandemic.

She soaked up the positivity of the other volunteers and guests during that difficult time, but when she lost her job, she began to struggle financially.

“It's just such a basic fundamental need...being able to have food. If you don't, that's a constant stress, especially when you have a family."

She began using the pantry to make ends meet and keep food on the table for herself and her young son. Kay is now experiencing some relief and continues to be a lead volunteer at the pantry, signing up new visitors to the pantry, and also helping them shop if they need assistance.

"It's just one thing I'll never have to worry about - are we going to be hungry? No. It's a huge piece of mind."

Meet Varun

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:14:49 GMT

Not long ago visitors to the food pantry at University of Bridgeport had to squeeze into a small room with limited choices.

Staff reported, "Only four students could access the pantry at once, inventory was severely limited, and the space was neither warm nor accessible."

Thanks to Connecticut Foodshare investing in a revamp of their space, students from all over the world now use Knight's Pantry and feel welcome, respected and cared for. One student Varun, shared:

“I don't go towards the meat or chicken as a vegetarian person, but I have lots of other options. I would say [I'm saving] around $80 to $100 a month.”

When budgets are limited, choices shouldn't be. Varun is now able to focus on his studies and not worry about making meals happen. While the food pantry is not his only source of food, the convenience of a welcoming on campus pantry makes all the difference for him. It's helping his future get off to a good, healthy start.

Winter 2026 Newsletter

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:00:55 GMT

Read the latest edition of Connecticut Foodshare's Newsletter

To read the Winter 2026 Newsletter, click here.

Staff Spotlight: Miranda Muro

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 20:11:23 GMT

Meet Miranda Muro, our Senior Director of Network Relations!

Meet Miranda Muro, our Senior Director of Network Relations! Miranda works with more than 450 food pantries across the state, helping ensure communities have access to the food they need. With 12 years at Connecticut Foodshare and a lifelong commitment to service, her dedication makes a lasting impact every day.

Hunger Heroes: Hiscox Foundation USA

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:16:11 GMT

Thank you, Hiscox Foundation USA, for being true Hunger Heroes! Your generous $100,000 gift is making a meaningful impact for our neighbors facing hunger. A special thank you to the members of Hiscox's West Hartford, Connecticut team who volunteered with us! We’re grateful for your partnership.

Watch the full video here.

Trinity Solar Partners with Connecticut Foodshare to Help Fight Hunger in CT

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 17:37:15 GMT

New Initiative Turns Solar Education Into Meals For Families In Need

Trinity Solar Partners with Connecticut Foodshare to Help Fight Hunger in Connecticut

New initiative turns solar education into meals for families in need

Connecticut - Connecticut Foodshare is proud to announce a new partnership with Trinity Solar, joining forces to help address food insecurity across the state. This collaboration provides Connecticut residents with an opportunity to learn how solar can help them reduce utility costs, while directly supporting Connecticut Foodshare’s mission to provide nutritious meals to individuals and families facing hunger.

Through this partnership, Trinity Solar will make a $100 contribution to Connecticut Foodshare for every completed, no-obligation solar consultation . With Connecticut Foodshare’s ability to provide 2 meals for every $1 , each consultation can help provide up to 200 meals to Connecticut families in need.

For homeowners who decide to move forward with a solar installation through Trinity, an additional $1,000 contribution will be made to Connecticut Foodshare, creating an even greater impact.

“We are grateful for the support of Trinity Solar and this innovative opportunity to help our neighbors in need,” said Monica Obrebski, Chief Engagement & Impact Officer at Connecticut Foodshare. “As more families face rising costs, partnerships like this help us ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food.”

Participation is simple:
Homeowners can schedule a free home solar evaluation with a local Trinity Solar expert. The consultation helps residents learn about available programs, incentives, and how solar can help reduce energy costs, while automatically supporting Connecticut Foodshare.

Get started:

Visit: https://trinity-solar.com/organization/connecticut-foodshare/

Or call: 800-655-2500 (mention Connecticut Foodshare)

“Giving back is part of who we are,” said Lori Scala, Regional Account Executive for Trinity Solar’s Community Outreach Program. “We’re thrilled to partner with Connecticut Foodshare and help transform solar conversations into meals for families throughout Connecticut.”

As the demand for assistance continues to grow, this partnership provides an easy, impactful way for the community to get involved, simply by learning about solar energy.

Together, we can make a meaningful difference for Connecticut families.

Connecticut Foodshare Authorizes $1 Million In Emergency Funding For Government Shutdown Response

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 15:05:49 GMT

Statement from President and CEO Jason Jakubowski

As the government shutdown continues, Connecticut Foodshare is preparing to take emergency action to ensure our community has access to the food it needs. Connecticut Foodshare’s Board of Directors has authorized $1 million from its capital reserves to support this emergency response. These funds will be used to support additional food distributions for affected federal employees as well as increased food for our network of over 600 agency partners and programs that provide food across the state.

Though Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits have not been impacted for the month of October, a prolonged government shutdown could jeopardize future funding, raising serious concerns for more than 400,000 residents.

Connecticut has 18,000 federal employees and we remain committed to ensuring our neighbors have the support needed during this difficult time. However, we cannot do this work alone. We continue to rely on the generosity of our community to help sustain this critical work.

To find help, please visit www.ctfoodshare.org/get-help

If you’d like to make a donation, please visit www.ctfoodshare.org/donate

ABOUT CONNECTICUT FOODSHARE:

Connecticut Foodshare is the food bank serving the people of Connecticut and a partner food bank of Feeding America’s nationwide network. In Connecticut, more than 516,000 or 1 in 7 people are food insecure. That includes more than 122,000 or 1 in 6 children. Connecticut Foodshare distributes food to 480+ agency partners (food pantries, community kitchens, shelters) and more than 100 mobile food pantry locations.

Statement from Connecticut Foodshare Regarding Government Shutdown

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 13:09:41 GMT

Statement from President and CEO Jason Jakubowski

While we do not yet know the scope or duration of this government shutdown, we do know it will mean more people in Connecticut may need our support.

Connecticut Foodshare will be here for our neighbors across the state as we were during the 2019 partial shutdown and the COVID-19 pandemic. Together with our agency partners and dedicated volunteers, we stand ready to respond to increased need across the state.

We remain hopeful that Congress will act quickly to reach a resolution.

To find help, please visit www.ctfoodshare.org/get-help

Hunger Heroes: Chris and Jim Wrobel

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:54:57 GMT

In 2014, Chris and Jim Wrobel learned their neighbors were struggling to put food on the table. They could not turn their backs on their community, so they started volunteering at Connecticut Foodshare. Chris phoned donors to thank them for their generosity. Jim jumped into the warehouse and sorted food that would become meals for neighbors.

“You can’t get a better mission than helping other people. If you need a purpose in life to give back, this is the place to be. We love Connecticut Foodshare!”

Their commitment only deepened when their church started hosting a Connecticut Foodshare mobile pantry, and Chris and Jim joined the frontlines serving people in need. “Today, food insecurity is huge. At times we can have up to 200 people. We see the outcome and where the food goes. Being able to help people is extremely rewarding. Connecticut Foodshare is out there to help the community with food insecurity. I would bet that if people spent 30 minutes at the mobile food pantry, they would agree this is where their money should go.”

Dedicated supporters like Chris and Jim make a world of difference when the need is so high – 1 in 7 of our Connecticut neighbors are struggling to get enough food onto their plates. They believe passionately in food security for everyone. Even when Jim faced his own personal battle with cancer, he never stopped showing up, knowing that his neighbors were depending on him. We hope his strength and their compassion inspire you to help us build a thriving community, free of hunger.

Hunger Heroes: Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 19:07:34 GMT

A Delicious New Partnership Fighting Hunger in Connecticut!

Connecticut Foodshare is thrilled to announce a flavorful new collaboration with Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café , a beloved local business known for its freshly made bagels and warm community spirit.

For 35 years, Between Rounds has been serving up comfort and quality—and now, they’re serving up hope. Co-founder and President Jerry Puiia shares, “The best way to help yourself is by helping others. And that’s our goal – to help others.”

To support our mission of fighting food insecurity across the state, Between Rounds launched a brand-new breakfast sandwich: The B.E.C.C.A. This mouthwatering creation features bacon, egg, cheese, Hellmann’s chipotle mayo, and avocado, served on your choice of bagel, bread, roll, or croissant. (Pro tip: try it on a croissant—it’s magnificent!)

Here’s the best part: Fifty cents from every B.E.C.C.A. sandwich sold will go directly to Connecticut Foodshare.

Jerry adds, “If you haven’t tried Between Rounds, this is a great opportunity. All of our breakfast sandwiches are phenomenal, and our lunch offerings are just as great. We’ve been saying it for years— ‘We’d love to see ya!’”

You can support this partnership—and enjoy a delicious meal—by visiting Between Rounds locations in South Windsor, Vernon, Tolland, Manchester, and East Windsor.

Businesses Making a Difference

This partnership is a shining example of how local businesses can make a meaningful impact in their communities. If you're a business owner looking to give back, we’d love to explore ways to collaborate with you. Together, we can nourish our neighbors and build a stronger, more resilient Connecticut.

Interested in partnering with Connecticut Foodshare?

Reach out to us today—we’d love to see you join the movement.

To learn more about Between Rounds, visit there website here.

You can watch a clip announcing the new partnership here.

Connecticut Foodshare ready to fill the research gap left by USDA

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 17:36:38 GMT

Connecticut Foodshare President and CEO Jason Jakubowski responds

Connecticut Foodshare is deeply concerned by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) decision to end the Household Food Security Reports, which consistently tracked food insecurity data for 30 years in the United States. These reports provide critical insight into the scope and severity of food insecurity, helping policymakers, advocates, and food banks like ours better understand and respond to the needs of our neighbors.

While this decision is a major blow to tracking food insecurity data nationally, Connecticut Foodshare remains committed to collecting and publishing as much data as possible about the state of hunger in Connecticut. We have sent a letter to Governor Lamont and legislative leaders letting them know that we stand ready to leverage our own resources to fill this information gap for our state. Connecticut Foodshare’s Data & Impact Team works hard to collect and analyze information that’s essential to mobilizing resources and driving effective solutions. This team, led by Chief Data & Impact Officer Tyler Kleykamp (former and first Chief Data Officer for the State of Connecticut) is at the forefront of helping Connecticut Foodshare deliver an informed and equitable response to hunger in Connecticut.

If the federal government chooses to stop measuring food insecurity data, it doesn’t mean the issue of food insecurity doesn’t exist. With continued concerns about rising food costs and cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), national food insecurity data is more important than ever for a comprehensive understanding of hunger in America.

Connecticut Foodshare will remain committed to providing clear, reliable information so that our communities, partners, and policymakers have the insight they need to make a meaningful difference in the fight against food insecurity.

Hunger Hero: Liz Teare of GIFTS + ART on Trumbull

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 14:10:09 GMT

“I know that Connecticut Foodshare provides a vital role in our communities by distributing food to those facing food insecurity.”

Meet Liz Teare, owner of GIFTS + ART on Trumbull in Hartford! Liz and her husband are longtime supporters of Connecticut Foodshare. They donate and volunteer with us, because they know how great the need is right now.

GIFTS + ART on Trumbull is a wonderful, new addition to downtown Hartford. You can stop by to find beautiful gifts for all ages and artwork from local and regional artists.

Thank you, Liz, for your generosity and commitment to helping fight hunger!

2025 Neighbor Council Report

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 20:17:01 GMT

For over five decades, the response to growing food insecurity was often met with increased food distribution, but the root causes are much more complex, including lack of affordable housing, low wages, high living costs, and systemic inequities. Connecticut Foodshare recognizes that ending food insecurity requires addressing these root causes and has created the Connecticut Foodshare Neighbor Council to engage with neighbors and influence food bank and government policies.

Meet Baby Joslyn and Parents

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 18:53:13 GMT

Autumn and Nathan are raising Joslyn on healthy foods like fresh veggies and fruit, but these foods are so expensive in the grocery store that they have a hard time making their budget work.

Even though they are employed, these parents find themselves visiting a Connecticut Foodshare mobile food pantry to get these essential foods for their daughter.

"The cost of living has gotten so outrageous. Mortgage isn’t cheap, and I work full time." Thankfully the mobile food pantry is able to provide some grocery relief for this family so they won't have to worry about where their next meal is coming from.

"I think it really just keeps us afloat to be really honest. We really do need it more than it being supplementary. We’ve been coming here about six months. I think the fruit and vegetables are the most useful. She’s been on purees since seven months, and we always made fresh stuff with all the vegetables. So it’s really helpful."

With 1 in 6 children facing food insecurity in Connecticut, lifelines like the mobile pantries are bridging the gap between hungry and healthy for many people. Nearly 5.5 million meals were distributed through the mobile program last year, and an average of 27,000 households were served free, healthy groceries each month. With the support of our volunteers and donors, Connecticut Foodshare can continue to keep this vital resource going - and deliver fresh, nutritious food to our neighbors in over 110 locations across our state.

Meet Carla

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:45:44 GMT

Carla joined the first cohort of the culinary training program at St. Vincent de Paul Mission in Waterbury in 2022.

Trained by Chefs Phil and Frank, she learned kitchen skills and found a sense of community. "It was enjoyable. We all got along like family." Now employed by the City of Waterbury, Carla still volunteers many days each week to serve meals to shelter and kitchen guests, and she also helps out in the food pantry.

“If it wasn’t for Connecticut Foodshare we probably wouldn’t have the food to feed the people that need lunch or dinner or snack…whatever it is that they need. Without them, it would be rough going and we wouldn’t have the supplies for the culinary school. [Laughter] We would need the potatoes, eggs, bread, and milk…the supplies to learn with.”

"I’m just glad that [Connecticut Foodshare] partners with St. Vincent De Paul Mission. If it wasn’t for this place, I probably wouldn’t be where I’m at now. I don’t know where I’d be if I didn’t come to this program.

“At the holidays, you see [Connecticut] Foodshare, they’ll fill up the truck, donate turkeys and all this, but when you actually see the work that they do and the different places that they go and all that goes along with it...it’s people’s lives. They brought homelessness and food insecurity to the forefront. Even though the pandemic’s over, there’s just as many people who are still food insecure with rising prices and the loss of jobs or lack of wages.”

“I still come here at least three to four times a week and in the weekend, I help out and help serve the food or work in the pantry. I empathize with these people that come here and I’m grateful for what I have. I feel good for just the little bit I can do."

Meet Kayla

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:32:30 GMT

Kayla is a powerhouse of a mom, and her husband is a hardworking truckdriver. Together they are a blended family, raising six children.

Managing a large family on one income can be difficult, so Kayla visits the Connecticut Foodshare mobile food pantries to stretch their budget and keep healthy groceries on hand.

“We are able to get things that help supplement in the house, which is huge, especially fruits and vegetables. We are a one income family. We are a large family. Even if I was working it would still help.”

Kayla had been working full-time as an elementary special education teacher until the birth of her youngest child, Lucia, now three. Then came some unexpected news, “Daycare [said] they can’t come back, we don’t have enough teachers. My husband was home with me for two weeks when I found out from the daycare.”

Financial burdens aside, the kids are healthy, thriving, and get to be kids. At home, they are learning about where their food comes from – they are growing a food garden and raising chickens. And on occasion they come with mom to the mobile food pantry.

“Thank you…the stuff we get is amazing. It’s a good way for the kids to try new things. When they help make dinner, if they make it or choose it, then they are more likely to eat it.”

What would family meals look like without mobile food pantries? “Less berries, a lot less fruits and vegetables. This has been so beneficial. We’re able to get a variety of food that we enjoy.”

Connecticut Foodshare provides a safety net for our neighbors who get hit with hardships like this, and we are honored to be able to support families like Kayla’s. Together we can make sure that kids and families have the food they need to grow and thrive. Let’s make sure the safety net continues.

Summer 2025 Newsletter

agalal@ctfoodshare.org — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 17:43:42 GMT

Read the latest edition of Connecticut Foodshare's Newsletter

To read the Summer 2025 Newsletter, click here.

Staff Spotlight: Carolyn Russell, Senior Director of Food Strategy & Procurement

agalal@ctfoodshare.org — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 20:52:46 GMT

We’re excited to launch our new Staff Spotlight series — giving you a chance to meet the dedicated people behind the work we do every day to fight hunger in Connecticut.

Carolyn Russell just celebrated 18 years with Connecticut Foodshare! As the Senior Director of Food Strategy and Procurement, Carolyn plays a crucial role in making our mission possible.

To view her Staff Spotlight interview, click here.

Statement on the Passage of the Budget Reconciliation Bill

agalal@ctfoodshare.org — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:57:07 GMT

Connecticut Foodshare President and CEO, Jason Jakubowski, responds

CONNECTICUT FOODSHARE STATEMENT ON THE PASSAGE OF THE BUDGET RECONCILIATION

BILL

Connecticut Foodshare President and CEO, Jason Jakubowski, responds

“Connecticut Foodshare is deeply concerned about the impact of the recently passed federal budget bill, which

includes significant cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). At a time when food

insecurity is rising nationwide and the cost of food and healthcare remains high, this legislation will worsen the

crisis for seniors, veterans, children, and families in Connecticut and across the country.

SNAP is the nation’s most effective program for addressing hunger and for every one meal a food bank can

provide, SNAP can provide nine.

These cuts of nearly $200 billion will eliminate the equivalent of around 6 billion meals each year. There is not

enough food in every food bank in the nation to make up the difference here. These cuts will increase

challenges for people facing hunger who are doing everything they can to get by and place even greater

pressure on food banks and meal programs responding to the growing need. They will also have a negative

economic effect on the nearly 2,500 retail businesses in Connecticut – including grocery stores – who currently

accept SNAP payments.

This legislation is a significant setback for people and communities already facing barriers to accessing the food

and resources they need to thrive. With the sustained high cost of food and healthcare, this is not the time to scale

back essential programs that help families stay afloat.

We are grateful to our two U.S. Senators and all five of our U.S. Representatives for their outspoken and ongoing

opposition to this bill, and their advocacy on behalf of those we serve. Connecticut Foodshare will be working with

our federal and state lawmakers to find ways to support our neighbors facing hunger who will be impacted by this

bill in the coming months and years. Our goal is to ensure that we have the necessary resources to continue to

provide the families we serve with the nutritious food they need to learn, work, and thrive.”

Additional background information on SNAP:

Connecticut Foodshare’s SNAP Outreach team helps individuals across the state apply for SNAP benefits. Anyone

who needs assistance applying can call 860-856-HELP (4357). Last year, Connecticut Foodshare’s SNAP Outreach

team helped 2,130 households apply for SNAP, which provided 1.3 million meals to neighbors in Connecticut.

SNAP also strengthens local economies by supporting grocery stores, food retailers, and farmers' markets.

Media Contact:

Ayah Galal

External Relations Manager

agalal@ctfoodshare.org

To view this statement as a PDF, click here.

Meet Grace and Baby Josie

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 14:45:37 GMT

Moms like Grace, and her daughter Josie, visit Connecticut Foodshare mobile pantries so they can stretch ever-tightening budgets and get the groceries they need.

Our Connecticut Foodshare staff visit our mobile food pantries regularly, and when we do, we like to meet and get to know our neighbors who use this resource. On the move, like most parents are these days, Grace stopped to chat with us briefly so she could express her thanks for the good food like fruit, veggies, and dairy, that keeps her family going.

About 1/3 of the food we provide to our neighbors is fresh produce and much of that is distributed through our over 110 mobile food pantry locations. Our mobile food pantries provide this food no questions asked/no ID required, as we understand that food insecurity can happen at any time, to any person, and we are here to help in the moment of need. Everyone deserves to have enough healthy food to thrive, and no one should have to worry where their next meal is coming from.

Your support makes a tremendous, positive impact on families and kids like Grace and Josie. Thank you for caring for the people in Connecticut who are struggling to access enough healthy food to thrive.

Hunger Hero: Steve Deane

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 16:44:42 GMT

Steve Deane, pictured above in the front row, third from the left, is a long-time supporter of Connecticut Foodshare, and joined our Board of Directors in 2024. Serving on the Strategic Planning Committee, he is passionate about helping our Connecticut neighbors get the food they need and deserve.

Connecticut Foodshare runs over 110 mobile food pantries across the state, distributing fresh, healthy food to over 25,000 households monthly. Steve recently shared his experience of volunteering at a West Hartford mobile food pantry, and hopes it encourages others to get involved.

"Helping out at the mobile pantry was a moving experience, just getting to play a very small role in helping some of our neighbors in need. But it emphasized for me how large those needs are, how many of our neighbors are struggling and how much our state and community has ahead of us to help address those needs. That's also why I choose to donate...a $10 donation can provide 20 meals, $100 can provide 200 meals. Every dollar can have a big impact to our neighbors in need."

No one should have to worry where their next meal is coming from, but the reality is there are over 500,000 people in Connecticut who cannot consistently access enough food. There are many ways to help our neighbors achieve food security, so please consider joining Steve in building a hunger free community by donating below or exploring volunteer opportunities.

The Lumineers | July 13, 2025

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 17:14:01 GMT

Join us in the Mohegan Sun Arena Skybox for an exclusive event that supports Connecticut Foodshare.

$150 Donation ($100 tax deductible)
Includes donation to Connecticut Foodshare, Admissions, and Buffet Dinner
Cash Bar Available

Birdies for Charity | Until June 22, 2025

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 17:11:46 GMT

Connecticut Foodshare is participating in the 2025 Birdies for Charity program! Birdies for Charity is supported through the Travelers Championship and allows local nonprofits to raise awareness and funds to support their missions.

With your support, Connecticut Foodshare will receive a 15% bonus on every dollar raised, thanks to the generosity of Webster Bank ‘s Bonus Pool. This means your donation goes even further in helping us create a thriving community, free of hunger.

Make a 115% difference today by donating here:

Hunger Hero: Sunny Lindamood and Family

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Thu, 29 May 2025 18:37:10 GMT

Sunny Lindamood began volunteering for Connecticut Foodshare as a public speaker, giving presentations at schools about hunger in Connecticut, and then took the path less traveled, embarking on a 14 year adventure, riding along on our mobile food pantry trucks, helping get food to our neighbors across Connecticut.

“The reason I loved going out on the truck was I wanted to meet the people we’re helping. And I wanted to hear their stories. I would often help them get resources. They were always so grateful for how they were treated. It was really meaningful.”

She now sorts and inspects food at our Bloomfield facility on Wednesdays with a team of people she considers “a gang” of good friends. “I just love the folks. This group of volunteers, they’ve been really tight and they just warmly welcomed me. They’re all very successful people who have had really interesting careers, and they do so many interesting things. They all believe in the mission. Adequate food should be a right not a privilege.”

Sunny’s service to Connecticut Foodshare has also spanned generations: her daughters, Christine and Libby used to help Sunny with food drives when they were young, and recently Christine’s kids, aka “The Grands”, wanted to join in on the family’s passion. They set up a lemonade stand, baked brownies, and asked their West Hartford neighbors for donations to give to a good cause. “What about [Connecticut] Foodshare that Grammy does?”

Sunny beamed when she shared, “They raised over $200! This will be the third generation in my family of helping [Connecticut] Foodshare.” From all of us at Connecticut Foodshare, THANK YOU to Sunny and her amazing and generous family!

Statement from Connecticut Foodshare on the House Reconciliation Bill

agalal@ctfoodshare.org — Wed, 28 May 2025 19:13:14 GMT

Connecticut Foodshare President and CEO, Jason Jakubowski, responds

STATEMENT FROM CONNECTICUT FOODSHARE ON THE HOUSE RECONCILIATION BILL

Connecticut Foodshare President and CEO, Jason Jakubowski, responds

“Any reduction in funding to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is catastrophic at a time

when more neighbors are facing food insecurity. SNAP is the nation’s most effective program for addressing

hunger. For every one meal a food bank can provide, SNAP can provide nine.

Grocery prices are already too high. With the sustained high cost of food and health care, this is not the time to

scale back essential programs that help families stay afloat. Families, seniors, veterans, and children in our

community work hard every day to build better lives – but they need a strong foundation to succeed. Access to

food and health care is that foundation.

Hunger transcends party lines and if implemented, the impact of this legislation will be felt in every community

across the political spectrum. In Connecticut, more than 516,000 people are food insecure. Demand for food

assistance is rising and strong federal nutrition programs are critical to ensuring our neighbors have the support

they need. Now is the time to come together to preserve and strengthen SNAP.”

Additional background information on SNAP:

Connecticut Foodshare’s SNAP Outreach team helps individuals across the state apply for SNAP benefits. Last

year, Connecticut Foodshare’s SNAP Outreach team helped 2,130 households apply for SNAP and SNAP

provided 1.3 million meals to neighbors in Connecticut. SNAP also strengthens local economies by supporting

grocery stores, food retailers, and farmers markets.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Ayah Galal

External Relations Manager

agalal@ctfoodshare.org

ABOUT CONNECTICUT FOODSHARE:

Connecticut Foodshare is the food bank serving the people of Connecticut and a partner food bank of Feeding

America’s nationwide network. In Connecticut, more than 516,000 or 1 in 7 people are food insecure. That

includes more than 122,000 or 1 in 6 children. Connecticut Foodshare distributes food to 480+ agency partners

(food pantries, community kitchens, shelters) and more than 100 mobile food pantry locations.

Map the Meal Gap 2025 Report

agalal@ctfoodshare.org — Wed, 14 May 2025 21:00:12 GMT

New data has been released on food insecurity in Connecticut

To view the updated food insecurity data, click here

To view the full 2025 Map the Meal Gap report from Feeding America, click here

Spring 2025 Newsletter

agalal@ctfoodshare.org — Tue, 06 May 2025 15:10:38 GMT

Read the newest edition of Connecticut Foodshare's Newsletter

To read the Spring 2025 Newsletter, click here.

Connecticut Foodshare's Walk Against Hunger Returns to Dunkin' Park on April 26

agalal@ctfoodshare.org — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:39:21 GMT

Connecticut Foodshare's Walk Against Hunger Returns to Dunkin' Park on April 26

CONNECTICUT FOODSHARE'S WALK AGAINST HUNGER RETURNS TO DUNKIN' PARK ON APRIL 26

(Hartford, CT) — Connecticut Foodshare is proud to announce the return of the Walk Against Hunger, the state’s

largest anti-hunger event, taking place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Dunkin’ Park (1214 Main Street, Hartford).

This family-friendly event brings together individuals, teams, and community organizations to support the ongoing

fight against food insecurity across the state. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m., and the 1.5 mile walk officially steps off

at 10:00 a.m.

Connecticut Foodshare invites qualified partner programs to register as benefitting partners. Walkers can choose to

support these organizations during registration, and 100% of the funds raised by those walkers go directly to their

selected program.

Registration for the event is FREE and participants are encouraged to raise funds for their chosen partner program,

helping local food pantries, shelters, and hunger-relief organizations continue their critical work.

The Chase Family Kids Zone returns this year with face painting, caricatures, balloon twisting and live goats!

In 2024, a total of 54 benefiting partners raised over $200,000 to benefit their local program.

A special thank you to Stop & Shop, our presenting sponsor.

To register, join a team, or learn more, visit ctfoodshare.org/walk

MEDIA CONTACT:

Ayah Galal

External Relations Manager

agalal@ctfoodshare.org

ABOUT CONNECTICUT FOODSHARE:

Connecticut Foodshare is the food bank serving the people of Connecticut and a partner food bank of Feeding

America’s nationwide network. In Connecticut, nearly 470,000 or 1 in 8 people are food insecure. That includes

more than more than 112,000 or 1 in 6 children. Connecticut Foodshare distributes food to 480+ agency partners

(food pantries, community kitchens, shelters) and more than 100 mobile food pantry locations.

Hunger Hero: Molly Devanney

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 17:19:51 GMT

Molly Devanney is a tireless advocate for her neighbors across Connecticut and in her own hometown of Manchester.

As an experienced food industry professional, owner of Highland Park Market stores, professor at CT State – Manchester, and Board Member of Connecticut Foodshare, Molly credits her father, Tim Devanney, with instilling “giving back” as the norm, and she is absolutely living that legacy.

In the early years of her involvement at the food bank, Molly was part of Convoy of Caring, a massive-scale food drive with the Connecticut food industry and retailers sending tractor trailer loads of food to the food bank. She then worked with the culinary students and leadership at CT State – Manchester to grow Empty Bowls, a global fundraising initiative to fight hunger, that took place every Fall on campus. She stayed laser-focused on how they could help their local neighbors facing food insecurity, and this fundraiser has become a beloved annual October tradition in the Hartford area and is a major source of donations to Connecticut Foodshare. “Any time you can start with students contributing and then see them become engaged with Connecticut Foodshare…now they’re volunteering, and they continue to carry on that legacy of giving back, I think it’s great.”

Molly is clearly in her element when she is rolling up her sleeves, diving in, and doing whatever work is necessary. During the early days of the pandemic, she started volunteering at a Connecticut Foodshare mobile food pantry in Manchester and invited her aunt Maureen to join her.

“You’re totally in touch with the people we are doing the work for. I’m glad my aunt started volunteering with Connecticut Foodshare because it gives her some purpose and meaning. Everybody needs that…I think it’s important to thank the volunteers…people need food, and we’re there no matter what.”

She reflects on her time with Connecticut Foodshare. “It’s really come full circle for me. I’ve enjoyed every minute. It’s really been a great, great experience being involved with Connecticut Foodshare. I think to be a responsible board member is to get involved, to be hands on.”

Molly’s advice to people who might want to support Connecticut Foodshare as a donor or volunteer? “Every little bit makes a difference. It’s so impactful how many people you feed and help…you’re taking care of your community. And there is something really special about that.”

Meet Candy

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 16:24:21 GMT

Candy is a friendly, outgoing, and caring woman who is working full-time and living in the Rockville community of Vernon, Connecticut.

In the historic town center of Rockville in the town of Vernon, up in the hills just off the main street, Cornerstone Foundation is here to help its neighbors. A partner of Connecticut Foodshare, this true cornerstone of the neighborhood since 1982 aids people who might be struggling with housing, securing basic needs like clothing or household items, or having a hard time putting a nutritious meal on the table. Anyone in need is welcome here.

“I had been in and out of the shelter a couple times...I am now renting a room, but things are still hard. I do have a full-time job, but it’s still hard to try to survive. So, when I’m able to, I do come here and enjoy what they provide here,” Candy spoke with Connecticut Foodshare to explain how she is getting the food and help she needs, “The last time I was here, which was last week, they did a nice spiral ham...the ham was amazing. They had mashed potatoes, vegetables and salad, and fruit salad.”

Cornerstone Foundation goes far beyond providing food through the pantry and community kitchen – they also have a teen center, thrift store, several shelters and host a Connecticut Foodshare mobile food pantry every other week.

"Just knowing that they are here day in, day out, providing such wonderful meals for us, that means everything...the volunteers down there [at] the food pantry, just knowing that if I need it, they’re there...every little bit helps, and especially nowadays it’s hard. I’m by myself, trying to support myself.”

Connecticut Foodshare is honored to partner with programs like Cornerstone Foundation who provide so much hope and stability for our neighbors in Rockville and surrounding communities.

“I honestly don’t know where I would be. I am truly thankful and grateful for everybody.”

Official Statement on Cuts to TEFAP Food

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 19:54:36 GMT

3/25/25 *BREAKING*

Connecticut Foodshare's official response to the most recent cuts to federal food sources.

Empty Bowls | 10.18.2025

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 13:15:30 GMT

CT State College at Manchester,

One Great Path Way, Manchester

11AM - 2PM

Empty Bowls is an international grassroots effort to fight hunger. Potters and other craftspeople work with the community to create handcrafted bowls, and guests are invited to a simple meal of soup and bread. In exchange for a donation, guests can keep the handcrafted bowl to take home as a reminder of all the empty bowls in our world.

Conversations with Connecticut Foodshare | 05.08.2025

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 13:04:49 GMT

Virtual Event

12PM-1PM

Join us for a quarterly conversation with Jason Jakubowski, President and CEO, a key staff member, and a member of our board of directors. These engaging conversations take place quarterly and are held exclusively online.

Official Statement on USDA Cuts to LFPA Funding Affecting Farmers, Neighbors, and Food Banks

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 20:04:40 GMT

3/11/25

Connecticut Foodshare responds to drastic cuts to federal funds.

Update from our President and CEO, Jason Jakubowski

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:24:58 GMT

3/3/25

It has certainly been a hectic start to 2025 here at Connecticut Foodshare. I appreciate all of you who have reached out to ask questions and offer support as we navigate a rapidly changing environment both in our state and across the country. There are still a lot of unknown factors that can and will have an impact on our work in the months ahead, but I can assure you that nothing will weaken our resolve to serve all of our neighbors who are living with food insecurity here in the state of Connecticut.

Could there be cuts to the TEFAP program that provides us with $40 Million worth of food each year? Yes, absolutely. Could there be cuts to SNAP and other programs that our neighbors directly count on for food? It's certainly possible. But here at the food bank, we can’t fret about the future when we already have a difficult job to do today. Our Board of Directors and our staff will continue to monitor the work of our lawmakers both in Washington, DC and at the State Capitol in Hartford, and we will continue to vigorously advocate on behalf of the 470,000 Connecticut residents we serve… but our No. 1 job is now and always will be providing quality food to neighbors and families in need .

Connecticut Foodshare has been around for nearly 43 years, and in that time, there has always been one constant: we serve everyone . No questions asked. If you live in Connecticut and you are hungry, we will serve you. Period. That is what we have always done, and that is what we will always do. We appreciate your support and encouragement, particularly during these ever-changing times.

Meet Lucy

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 17:24:58 GMT

Lucy is an 80-year-old retired school bus driver and nursing professional living in Bloomfield.

This mom of four, grandmother of nine, lives alone, but looks forward to connecting with her community to keep her mind and body active and feel secure. Connecticut Foodshare is honored to have a very special role in this. Every Saturday at Lucy's church in Bloomfield, talented chefs and volunteers cook up a delicious lunch and welcome anyone to sit at their tables and enjoy the afternoon among friends, old and new. Much of the food used to prepare the feast comes from Connecticut Foodshare. This special gathering not only provides a warm, healthy meal, but it also gives people a sense of belonging.

“When I came and met so many people, I started to feel better because I was so depressed in my apartment. When I come here, I feel lively again. I look forward to it. It’s a big help. I like the people, they're very friendly and nice. I love coming here every Saturday.”

Being on a fixed income and living alone, Lucy finds she sometimes needs help making ends meet. "When you get your social security, you have to pay your rent…your bills, things are so expensive in the store." Lucy needs a little grocery boost when money is tight so she visits a Connecticut Foodshare mobile food pantry nearby.

“I go there when I don’t have anything...they have nice vegetarian stuff. It’s a big help, a very, very big help! They’re all so nice. They take my bag and say, ‘Let me help you’. Thank you very much. You save some hungry people. Sometimes you’re hungry and you don’t know what to eat. I know I appreciate Connecticut Foodshare. I get nice things from them. I appreciate them from the bottom of my heart.”

Connecticut Foodshare is honored to help neighbors like Lucy, and thanks to our supporters, we can continue to be there for her and so many other neighbors.

Mobile Food Pantry Program Evaluation

merryr@ctfoodshare.org — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 15:04:44 GMT

Our neighbors are at the center of everything Connecticut Foodshare does, and that includes our mobile food pantries.

We recently conducted a comprehensive evaluation of our mobile food pantry program by surveying the people who visit these critical sources of healthy food.

Meet Tommy

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 18:09:45 GMT

Positive, energetic, and talkative: that’s how we would describe Thomas.

But he let us know to call him Tommy. We met Tommy at a food pantry in Enfield that also offers meals to guests, and Connecticut Foodshare provides this program with food and other support.

It’s known around town that the cooks here make every meal memorable, and that the food is top notch. Tommy values everything about this place – his relationship with the staff, volunteers and guests, and of course the fantastic meals, “This is some of the healthiest food around. For me to cook a meal like this and eat it and clean up after with a broken back and a broken neck, I couldn’t do it...I just had two major surgeries. I wouldn’t be in the shape I am if it wasn’t for this food.”

And while health challenges slowed Tommy down for a while, he managed to use this network of help to rise up from a very difficult time in his life. “This is helping me. I couldn’t afford any of this on my own. To be honest, I wouldn’t be able to afford my electric...my gas. On my own I would be...eating the bare minimum.”

This army veteran is as tough as he is grateful, “This is a godsend,” he says of the food pantry and delicious meals, “I was a nine-year homeless veteran. I was sleeping in my van. When I was first homeless, I didn’t know where to get food.” Tommy mentions the social services team he met at a neighborhood warming center and the encouragement he received from them to ask for help. “Being homeless and shy, you don’t want to open up too much.”

He worries about the other people he meets who are in worse situations than he has been, so Tommy chose to open up quite a bit the day we met him – he was “on a mission to help people.” He hopes his honesty will encourage others to ask for help when times are hard. “You can’t get to the brightness until you’ve been to the darkness,” he said with a big smile. We hope that Tommy’s big heart and positive energy will impact many people in need for a long time to come.

Community Impact Report 2022-2025

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 17:14:38 GMT

Connecticut Foodshare featured on CNN

Sat, 04 May 2024 17:17:59 GMT

The Need Has Never Been Greater

“It’s a tough environment for people,” said Jason Jakubowski, CEO of Connecticut Foodshare, the state’s food bank, which partners with more than 600 food pantries, meal programs and mobile distribution sites that served more than 40 million meals in the last fiscal year. “We’re at a point where the need is about the same as it was at the peak of the pandemic.”

CNN recently featured Connecticut Foodshare and our work to help the nearly 1 in 8 people in Connecticut who need help.