Kiwanis Club’s “Feed Wilton” Drive Comes at Critical Time as Social Services Sees Uptick in New Need

Given the country’s recent uncertainty for programs that have provided support for the food insecure, state and local social services have sought to fill the void. But the need continues to increase, including here in Wilton

Wilton Director of Social Services Stephanie Rowe spoke to the challenges the community is facing.

“Due to the government shut down and the resultant disruption to the funding of the SNAP program, we saw an increase in the number of Wilton residents who used the pantry. Although SNAP was fully restored, we are still seeing an influx in new clients still concerned about being able to afford their basic grocery items, as well as their holiday meal,” Rowe said.

As part of local efforts, the Wilton Kiwanis Club is making a strong push for its quarterly Kiwanis Food Drive to “Feed Wilton” this weekend, Friday-Sunday, Dec. 5-7, in front of Wilton supermarkets Stop & Shop and Village Market. All cash and gift cards collected will go to the Wilton Food Pantry.

Over the years generous Wilton citizens have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash, gift cards and product through Kiwanis quarterly food drives, which have consistently generated record levels of support. Last year the December food drive was the largest ever.

“Kiwanis has always strived to support projects that can do the most good for those with the greatest need,” Kiwanis President Joe Fiteni said. “No one in our community should go hungry.”

Rowe said it’s not just the fluctuation in SNAP availability that has been problematic, but the increase in food prices has made it harder for even more Wilton residents than before.

“Because of the recent dramatic increase in the cost of all food, we are also currently assisting many individuals and families who do not meet the SNAP income guidelines. They are designated ‘Asset Limited Income Constrained, Employed’ (ALICE) individuals. These neighbors are over income for state benefits but are still often unable to afford basic necessities and the ‘luxury’ of a holiday meal,” Rowe said.

Rowe is grateful the Kiwanis effort is something Social Services can count on.

“The gift cards collected by Kiwanis in December and passed on to all eligible Wilton Food Pantry shoppers will enable all of our neighbors experiencing food insecurity for whatever reason to purchase a turkey or a ham, fresh vegetables, dairy products and sweets for their holiday meal,” she said.