Yorktown Community Help Donates Food, Toys to Families in Need

Volunteers gathered in the lower level of the  Wednesday night for the monthly distribution of donated food items to local families in need.

The 's food pantry provides food and other relief to about 60 Yorktown families monthly and that number nearly doubles during the holidays, according to food pantry director Joan Seaboldt. 

Volunteers said during the holiday season people also donate toys, which are distributed to Yorktown families who can't afford toys for their children. A couple of residents waited in line along with their children on Wednesday to receive the donations. 

"More people are donating," said Seaboldt, who has been involved with the food pantry since 1980. "They know the need is greater and their generosity has matched the need."

In each bag, families receive a box of cereal, cans of fruits and vegetables, soups, peanut butter and jelly, among other items. For the holidays they receive an additional bag with items based on the number of people in their family. 

"It's the holidays and you have to give back," said Michelle DeJoseph, who was back home from college and came to the YCCC to help with the distribution. "I realize how fortunate I am and how something so small could help someone."

Yorktown Community Help was founded in the mid-1960’s when local churches and other organizations pooled their resources to provide help to families in need. 

Volunteers said some residents donate cash, which is then used to purchase the food, and local schools hold food drives. This year, the biggest contributor was the , which .

But volunteers also stressed out that despite contributions being the heaviest during the holidays, families need food all year round. 

If you need help or you know of a family who is struggling, you can get in touch with the Yorktown Community Help, and all families remain anonymous. If you'd like to donate to the food pantry or get involved, you can call 914-962-1144. 

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