How much food can you tuck in a truck?
Not just a rhetorical question, the folks at Rensselaer Honda tucked a TON of food into a Honda truck and delivered it just in time to Unity House. Their November food drive is a big help to the Unity House food pantry, which serves hundreds of families and individuals each week. Food insecurity is a significant factor that drives people seek help from Community Resources, the Unity House program that helps with life’s essentials such as food, housing, employment and help with children. Of course, they can also make referrals to the Unity House domestic violence services and childcare programs at Unity House.
For families in need, there are great economic pressures at this time of year and a food pantry is an important safety net. We often see families that are just above the poverty level but a change in circumstance, such as a missed shift due to a sick child or reduced hours at work can mean the difference between paying the rent or buying groceries. At the end of the month, the cupboards can be bare. The Unity House food pantry not only fills the immediate need for food, but also serves as a gateway to other services. Services such as securing SNAP benefits (commonly known as food stamps), help in securing home heating assistance, housing help and referrals, job coaching, and access to other Unity House services and programs.
If you are in the market for a new car and stop in for a look at Rensselaer Honda at 770 Hoosick Road, please thank them for answering the question of how much food can you tuck in a truck. We know from experience, it’s a lot!
Many thanks to the great team at Rensselaer Honda for helping out and to all those who donated goods. If you’ll be helping out a food pantry, check out these FAQs:
Q: What sorts of items can a food pantry best use?
A: Non-perishable items. In particular:
Proteins such as canned/dried beans, peanut butter, canned tuna/chicken/beef stew/
Grains like rice or pasta
Boxed cereal or oatmeal
Pasta sauce and cooking oils
Fresh Fruit and vegetables
Diapers (not newborn size), feminine hygiene products and other personal care items are also needed.
Q: Where can I learn more about Rensselaer Honda?
A: They are located at 770 Hoosick Road. You can call Jennifer Anderson at (518) 279-1171 or check out their website.