To the editor:

According to the USDA, more than 38 million people, including 12 million children, in the United States are food insecure. That means that at some point during any given month they may not have the resources to put food on the table. The COVID-19 pandemic increased food insecurity among families with children and communities of color, who already faced hunger at much higher rates before the pandemic. Every community in the country is home to families who face hunger, but rural communities, like those scattered across the North Country, are especially hard hit by hunger.

Since 1975, the Saranac Lake Interfaith Food Pantry has been on the frontlines of meeting emergency food needs of local families and individuals. Our ability to provide assistance to neighbors in need is made possible by the truly incredible generosity of this community. Faithful donors contribute food and money. Inspired volunteers share their time and compassion. Local partners in the business and non-profit community are invaluable supporters. Thank you!

We would like to extend a particular thanksgiving for the generosity of our local postal carriers. Again this year, our friends at the post office organized a food drive, collecting canned and dry goods from the local community to benefit the pantry. It’s always a splendidly generous act that keeps the shelves of the Food Pantry full for those who need it most. Our appreciation is boundless.

We would also like to share a heartfelt thanksgiving to some of our youngest benefactors: the students of Paul Smith’s College. With a pop-up donation site in the Grand Union parking lot, they connected with the community and collected donations of both food and money for the food pantry. Your enthusiasm is inspiring and so important.

The Saranac Lake Interfaith Food Pantry is located in the green building at the corner of Bloomingdale Avenue and Church Street, across the street from Stewart’s. We have open hours every Saturday from 10 a.m. until noon. Emergency food help is available at any time. Call 518-891-7325, 518-891-0446, or 518-891-3401 for assistance. Our mailing address is P.O. Box 532 in Saranac Lake.

With gratitude for the kindness and generosity of this community,

Rev. Joann White, on behalf of the Saranac Lake Interfaith Food Pantry

Saranac Lake