HVCC Chief Thankful, But Also Looking Forward

Hockanum Valley Community Council CEO David Engelson still gets choked up when he thinks about the 741 low-income families that received a Thanksgiving dinner from the Tri-Town Food Pantry.

"This was absolutely unbelievable holiday, thanks to all the folks who helped us," he said this week.

Engelson then paused.

"But we can't lose sight of the fact that we can't stop. We have to come up with more food for family for Christmas …

"And Easter."

Engelson has been estimating that 850 families need to be fed with Christmas dinners. One major factor in the latest drive for donations consists of a donation of 300 and 100 turkeys by a pair of area businesses.

"So we have half the amounts," he said, adding that he would like to get another 800 turkeys or hams - plus the typical side dishes - so the pantry can furnish some Easter dinners in addition to the everyday winter demand.

Both Vernon Stop & Shops will be hosting food drives from Dec, 14 through 17, Engelson said.

Donations can be dropped off at the HVCC offices at 29 Naek Rd. in Vernon.

Rein's Deli will also be hosting the usual crowd of about 300 HVCC clients on Christmas Day from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. LOw-income residents can sign up  for the event through HVCC.

Lynch Toyota will be collecting toys for the event.