Food insecurity is a pressing issue in The Bronx, where over 25% of residents live in poverty. This stark reality drives many to seek assistance from local food pantries.
One notable effort is the revival of a food pantry in Soundview. Every week, hundreds gather at the Throggs Neck Community Alliance pantry, eager for help to put meals on their tables. Angela Torres, the founder, has ambitious plans to reopen a pantry outside the Claire Heureuse Community Center in Soundview.
“There aren’t many consistent options in this area,” Torres explains. “People find it hard to travel far for help.”
The Soundview pantry had to close last year due to a drop in donations. Fortunately, a new partnership with GrowNYC is bringing it back, starting to distribute fresh and shelf-stable food this Saturday.
Torres emphasizes the pantry’s importance, stating, “Someone will wait in line for hours on a cold day. That shows how much they need support.”
Both the Throggs Neck and Soundview pantries rely entirely on volunteers. Torres, who also works full-time, describes the atmosphere as family-like. “We connect with the people who come to us. They share their struggles and stories.”
As the opening day nears, Torres hopes more community members will step in to lend a hand. Volunteering not only helps others but also builds stronger bonds within the community.
Research shows that food insecurity can lead to serious health issues, including diabetes and hypertension. According to a 2021 report from the Food Research and Action Center, food insecurity rates in New York City rose to about 14% in recent years, underlining the urgent need for community support systems like these pantries.
Overall, initiatives like the Soundview pantry provide not just food but also a sense of hope and community. These efforts are vital as they bring people together, fostering resilience in the face of challenges.
For more on food insecurity and community resources, you can visit the Food Research and Action Center.
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