11/04/2025
When the system stumbles, our community rises.
With SNAP benefits delayed this month due to the federal government shutdown, thousands of families across Essex County and beyond are facing a the scary reality of how to put food on the table.
At The Open Door, we responded quickly — hosting an emergency grocery distribution that provided fresh, healthy food to 652 Cape Ann residents from 271 households this weekend. We’ve also expanded grocery appointments at our Gloucester and Ipswich food pantries to ensure anyone affected can access the support they need in the days ahead.
As President and CEO Julie LaFontaine shared: “When the system stumbles, our community rises. Thanks to generous community donations, we were able to provide help and hope for the moment.”
This crisis is real. Behind every number is a person — a parent, a child, a senior — who feels the impact of your care and generosity.
If you can, please consider supporting your local food pantry or hunger-relief organization to help ensure no one faces hunger alone. Together, we can keep our neighbors nourished, supported, and hopeful — through this crisis and beyond.
To donate: https://foodpantry.org/ways-to-give/virtual-food-drive/
With Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program benefits delayed this month due to the federal government shutdown, The Open Door’s emergency grocery distribution Saturday provided supplies to 652 Cape Ann residents from