Vernon, Feds Teams Up To Distribute More Food Boxes

VERNON, CT — A second truckload of food has been distributed by Vernon officials to area families during the cornavirus pandemic through the US. Department of Agriculture's Farmers to Families food program.

On Tuesday, Vernon Mayor Daniel Champagne and Vernon Department of Public Works employees teamed up to distribute 1,400 boxes of fresh produce to senior citizens and families in Vernon, Hartford, Ellington, Coventry and Stafford.

Like last month, the fresh produce boxes included heads of lettuce and cabbage, bags of carrots, apples, onions, potatoes and celery.

About 89 million boxes of food have been distributed to families around the country through the USDA program intended to serve those affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

"I reached out to the housing authorities and to community leaders in neighboring towns to distribute the food to senior housing facilities and food pantries," Champagne said. "It was a great opportunity to get 15 pounds of fresh apples, carrots, celery and other items to seniors and families in our community."

(Town of Vernon)

The Hockanum Valley Community Council and the Cornerstone Foundation, both in Vernon, received hundreds of boxes of produce to distribute to families. A crew from the Vernon Housing Authority picked up 300 boxes of food to deliver to residents.

Immanuel House of Hartford and Rose Commons and Welles Country Village, both of Vernon, also received food for senior residents.

Some food boxes are still available and Champagne said those in need people are encouraged to call the Cornerstone Foundation at 860-871-1823 or the Hockanum Valley Community Council at 860-870-7940 to check availability.

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This story is part of Patch's new partnership with Feeding America. Patch has partnered with Feeding America to help raise awareness on behalf of the millions of Americans facing hunger. Feeding America, which supports 200 food banks across the country, estimates that in 2020, more than 54 million Americans will not have enough nutritious food to eat due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a Patch social good project; Feeding America receives 100 percent of donations. Find out how you can donate in your community or find a food pantry near you.

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