Colleagues recently conducted a food drive for the Waterbury Senior Center. The Center contacted Saint Mary’s Hospital looking for support in stocking their food pantry. Mira Levasseur, Director of the Waterbury Senior Center, said they have seen a tremendous increase in seniors looking for food and non-perishable pantry items. According to Levasseur, the Center has provided support to more than 250 clients in March.
“Community Health and Well Being is dedicated to nurturing community partnerships,” said Cheryl Hilton, Manager of Community Health and Well Being, Saint Mary’s Hospital. “We strongly feel that building strong relationships with local organizations can significantly impact the health and strength of the communities we serve.”
The food pantry was created in early 2023 in response to a rise in the number of seniors participating in the free breakfast and lunch meals provided at the Senior Center. Through dialogue with attendees, the Senior Center’s staff determined that there was a substantial need for supplementary aid. The pantry is available to Waterbury residents, 60 years or older and is open twice a month. Ancillary availability to the pantry is always provided. Levasseur said that they have also opened a pet food pantry to help seniors care for their beloved companions.
A dozen boxes full of canned goods, pasta and sauces, as well household items like toilet paper and paper towels were recently picked up by Levasseur and Maggie Walling, Projects Coordinator of the Waterbury Senior Center.