FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Salem Pantry Holds Inaugural Impact Breakfast
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Others Recognized for Their Support in Ensuring Reliable Access to Food
Salem, MA (June 27, 2024) – The Salem Pantry hosted its first Annual Impact Breakfast on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s efforts to combat food insecurity. The event centered around the release of The Salem Pantry’s inaugural impact report, which highlighted the growing need for reliable food access in Greater Salem.
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll delivered the keynote address, offering valuable insights into the rising levels of food insecurity across the Commonwealth. She emphasized the critical role of community organizations in addressing this pressing issue.
“According the the Greater Boston Food Bank, 34% of households, or 1.9 million adults, in Massachusetts are food insecure. That’s far too many people, especially when we consider that hunger is connected to so many of the other critical issues we’re facing, from housing costs and health equity, to learning loss and chronic illness. That’s why our administration is dedicated to taking an all-of-government approach to tackling hunger. ” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Our administration is so proud to support organizations like Salem Pantry because we know what a critical role local food systems play in our day-to-day wellbeing. By working together to fight food insecurity, we’re making Massachusetts more equitable, affordable, and competitive.”
The impact report revealed a record-breaking year for The Salem Pantry in 2023. Following the opening of The Market, the organization’s first brick-and-mortar location, early last year, the organization experienced a 105% increase in pantry visits from 2022, serving 6,510 households comprised of 19,910 individuals. Additionally, The Salem Pantry distributed over 2 million pounds of food through its pantry services and processed an additional 697,000 pounds for other food assistance organizations across The North Shore via their regional food hub.
“As we continue our journey toward a food-secure future, we are committed to community-led solutions, advocacy, and fostering strong partnerships.” said The Salem Pantry Executive Director “We are thrilled to present this update on our achievements, made possible by the support of so many.”
In recognition of her visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to food security, Kim Driscoll was honored with The Salem Pantry’s first-ever Leadership Award. Other award recipients included:
Marnie Greenhut, Curly Girl Candy Shop – 2024 Business Partner of the Year
North Shore Community Development Coalition – 2024 Community Partner of the Year
Donna Herman – 2024 Volunteer of the Year
The event saw the attendance of numerous local non-profit organizations, politicians, and community leaders, including State Senator Joan Lovely (D-Salem), State Representative Manny Cruz (D-Salem), and Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo.
About The Salem Pantry
The Salem Pantry, recently named the 2024 Greater Boston Food Bank Community Partner of the Year, provides the North Shore with convenient access to fresh, free, healthy food. Its innovative mobile pantries, home delivery program, food distribution hub, and The Market offer abundant produce, proteins, spices, and dairy products. They partner with local farmers and health organizations to serve over 3,600 households and distribute over 300,000 pounds of food per month.
Contact:
Kia Fernandes, Marketing and Communications Manager