The proverb “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” dates from 19th century Wales. Even then people knew that produce was essential to overall health. Over the years numerous studies have shown that a diet poor in fruits and vegetables increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer and other illnesses.
But healthy eating really does cost more. For low-income families struggling to feed themselves and their families, fruits and vegetables are out of reach — especially at this time of year when produce must be transported into Pittsburgh from warmer regions.
That’s why we’re committed to making sure that those who come to our Squirrel Hill Community Food Pantry (SHCFP) have not only a sufficient supply of non-perishable food items, but also the fresh produce required for good health. We do a specific fundraiser each year for this purpose. You may have received this and even responded — we’ve gotten lots of generous contributions already.
The SHCFP operates with the support of our community. Without the money, food and time/volunteer donations received, we would not be able to survive. It’s simply too expensive a program, but a program our community cannot do without.
The reality is that hunger is a problem that affected more people in the past few years than ever before. Last fiscal year we served 43% more people than we served the prior year, and this alarming trend seems to be continuing as illustrated by the higher number of people we are seeing so far this fiscal year.
Thank you so much for your support of JF&CS and all of our programs that help those who are struggling with lifecycle transitions and crises.
Click here to make your Fresh Produce Donation now. Just select “Sq Hill Pantry Fresh Produce” in the Program Designation drop-down.