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Date: 11/26/2021
WEST SPRINGFIELD — Despite the shortages on store shelves this holiday season, the Parish Cupboard has had plenty of food to provide to the individuals and families in which they serve.
Bob Fastie, executive director of the West Springfield-based food pantry, described this year’s donations as “incredible.”
Fastie said in October, the pantry received its greatest amount of “regular donations,” aside from the 100 cases of non-perishable items donated from the Turkish American National Steering Committee in June.
But by the end of this month, Fastie believes that November’s donations may top all.
Leading up to Thanksgiving, the Parish Cupboard received donations of turkeys, canned vegetables, mashed potatoes and additional sides. With the original goal of receiving 80 turkeys, Fastie said he ended up with almost 90.
In past years, the Parish Cupboard provided turkeys to families with four people or more, but this year it will provide turkeys to any families of more than two, along with anyone with a child.
“Anybody that has children — we want to make sure they have a turkey,” said Fastie.
He added that typically, single people don’t need a turkey, and with limited resources, the Parish Cupboard hasn’t made them eligible to receive one. Nonetheless, Fastie said if someone really needed one, accommodations can be made.
Recently, the Parish Cupboard has been serving about 10 people daily for lunch. Last month alone, the pantry fed 80 families.
In order to receive food from the Parish Cupboard, people must reside in West Springfield or Agawam. Lunch is served Monday through Friday between 11:10 a.m. and 12:20 p.m. The food pantry is also open Monday through Friday, 9 to 11 a.m. Fastie said the Parish Cupboard primarily serves people in economic need and the homeless.
Although the Parish Cupboard is currently in “good shape,” according to Fastie, donations are always appreciated.
With Christmas on the horizon, Fastie said some useful donations include hams (canned or spiral), canned vegetables, mashed potatoes, fruits and desserts such as cake mix or pies. He added that the smaller hams can be used for single individuals.
The Parish Cupboard is able to accept both perishable and non-perishable foods, as it can freeze necessary items such as meat.
Aside from holiday fixings, Fastie said the pantry can always benefit from the donations of jelly, along with boxed meals such as Hamburger Helper and Rice-a-Roni.
In addition, personal care items are needed. This includes travel-sized items such as shampoo, soaps and even razors.
In the past, Fastie said, “We haven’t been big on clothing, but now [we’re] asking for hats, socks and gloves.” Winter hoodies and coats are also accepted. Currently, there are a few people making scarves for donation, said Fastie.
He emphasized the importance of winter gear, particularly for those who are homeless.
Fastie extends his gratitude to the people of Agawam and West Springfield for their “wonderful” donations and continued support of the Parish Cupboard.
He went on to say that ever since the pandemic began, these two towns have been “very generous” in all their efforts.
The Parish Cupboard is at 738 Main St., West Springfield. Donors may drop off items between 7:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, and 5-7 p.m. on Wednesdays. For additional information, call 734-7969.