March News from SSKP

Latest News - March 2026

Dear Friends,

Spring is springing. It was a long cold winter, and we are dreaming of warmer days. This spring also brings a dream of a sixth SSKP Pantry. It is more than a dream; it is a need. Many of the SSKP programs are seeing increases in attendance. High energy bills and the rising cost of food and fuel are straining many household budgets to the breaking point.

This dream is within reach! We have a tentative site and are working on plans for staffing, food sourcing, and ongoing funding. Our expansion will bring greater stability and increased sustainability.

Please make a gift to the Spring Appeal as you are able. Your support makes our community a better place for everyone.

With hope and warmth,

Amy

Support the Spring Appeal

Your generosity and caring strengthens us for the coming year. Thank you!

How Do We Source Our Food?

We shared over 1.6 million pounds of food in 2025 through our food pantries! But where did the food come from?

28% was provided at no cost by our area food bank partners, Connecticut Foodshare and the Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center.
4% was purchased by SSKP from Connecticut Foodshare.
19% was purchased by SSKP from wholesale/retail distributors.
22% was sourced through federal and state Emergency Food Programs.
27% was donated by our generous community.

We are grateful for the many ways we source our food so that we can share it with our neighbors!

Thank You, Community Foundation of Middlesex County

SSKP is pleased to announce it has received a $5,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Middlesex County, made possible by the generosity of the Deep River Cares Fund, Killingworth Community Fund, and the River View Cemetery Fund.

This grant will help SSKP purchase fresh and nonperishable food to be shared with those in need on the shoreline through our SSKP Pantries in Clinton, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook.

We are truly grateful for the generous support of the CFMC!

Join the Firehouse Food Drive - Sat. April 18th

Save the Date! Local fire departments will host the Annual Firehouse Food Drive on April 18th from 9am – 1pm to collect non-perishable food for SSKP.

Many local shoreline fire departments will be collecting non-perishable food for SSKP during the April 18th food drive, which is one of the organization's largest food drives of the year. Watch for announcements as local fire departments join in this special food drive.

Fire department teams will be collecting donations at their firehouses as well as local grocery stores including Stop & Shop in Old Saybrook and Clinton; Big Y in Old Saybrook and Clinton; ShopRite in Clinton; DG Market in Essex, and Walmart in Old Saybrook.

This is one of our largest food drives of the year, so please help out!