AGENCY: Jewish Federation of Eastern CT

WHO: More than 1,409 families (4,600 individuals) have been served so far in 2021 by the food pantry. Many of these people are new clients due to the economic impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on their lives, and they look to the Jewish Federation of Eastern CT for relief.

THE SITUATION: Moms, dads, single parents, grandparents, retirees and disabled — these folks struggle each month to pay their bills and have enough money left over to buy food. One emergency will wipe out a carefully planned monthly budget. Last year, people's generosity allowed the federation to help 55 families or 156 children and adults. Many of these families had four or more kids under age 12. In most cases, the federation was able to provide these families with $50 worth of gift cards so they could buy toys for their kids. The federation was also able to help several families that had a parent beginning a new job and were in need of a uniform, special shoes or gas for work commuting. The federation is hoping to repeat its success this year with your continued generosity.

WHAT TO GIVE: Gift cards to Walmart, Target, Stop & Shop or ShopRite.

TO DONATE: Mail gift cards or a check, made payable to "JFEC" with "Make a Difference" in the memo line, to JFEC, 28 Channing St., New London, CT 06320. Questions can be directed to Mimi at (860) 442-8062 or mimi@jfec.com.