One of the grants the Brewster Community Food Pantry receives has seen a reduction of about $3,5000, according to pantry officials.
"This reduction is a reflection of 44 new food pantries that opened in the state of New York in the past year," a press release from the pantry states. It identifies the grant as one from the state's Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program.
"While food insecurity in Putnam County is on the increase, monies available from state and federal funds are decreasing," Sue Burcroff, co-president of the Brewster Community Food Pantry, said in a statement sent to Brewster10509, an online group with hundreds of subscribers. "We are in need of filling this gap to meet the needs of the families we serve."
The pantry sees between about 700 and 1,370 individuals monthly. In May, officials say, they served 224 households, or 197 children, 456 adults and 49 seniors.
Located at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, on Prospect Street in Brewster, the not-for-profit hands out food Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon and Thursdays and 1 to 3 p.m.
Donations, which are tax-deductible, may be sent via check to Brewster Community Good Pantry at St. Andrews Church (26 Prospect Street, Brewster, NY 10509).
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