Rick Traub has provided us with the yearly statistics for pantry use including total numbers, count by town, increases and/or decreases, etc. This report is not a quick read but provides an incredible amount of information including comparisons going back to 2010.

In addition to our regular offerings, clients found sugar snap peas (great for snacks at any age), green onions and heads of lettuce. Good Shepherd Food Bank (our major supplier) is initiating a confidential tracking system for pantry use statewide. The goal is to identify people having to travel beyond their local pantry to have timely access to food. Many pantries are open one day a month. Our pantry continues to open its doors weekly (Thursdays from 9 AM – 3 PM) to anyone in need of food.

FYI – after elections at our January Board meeting, Richard Washburn graciously accepted to serve as president. Our congratulations and appreciation to him! The Tree of Life by-laws call for term limits – 2 year terms, 2 terms maximum). Interestingly enough, people leaving the Board seldom leave the organization. In fact Margaret Hannah, a voice from the Tree’s past, has been welcomed to a term on the Board. Ray Manyak (our past president) continues to offer his considerable knowledge, experience and time. We are indeed blessed in many ways.

That’s it for this week – and I suspect it is plenty to digest. ‘Til next time,
Brenda