The Covenant Food Kitchen in Willimantic, CT has faced a major setback this Thanksgiving. Their refrigerator broke down on Thursday night, resulting in the loss of thousands of pounds of food. This crucial resource for those battling food insecurity had to discard essential supplies like dairy, meat, and fresh produce that were donated before the holiday. Kimberly Clark, the Executive Director, described the scene as heartbreaking - all their Thanksgiving leftovers and Christmas purchases had to be thrown out. They salvaged what they could but still filled several dumpsters.

"The Covenant Food Kitchen's Thanksgiving Struggle and Call for Support"

Impact on Those in Need

The loss has been extremely devastating for the community. Much of the discarded food was vital donations received just before Thanksgiving, which were intended to meet the growing need for food assistance during the holiday season. Joanne Millette, a volunteer and guest at the kitchen, emphasized the urgent need. "A lot of these people need something to eat because they’re in tents and they’re cold. When you don’t eat, your insides are cold too. You need something to warm the shackles of your heart."

These individuals rely on the Covenant Food Kitchen for their daily sustenance, and the loss of this food has left them in a difficult situation.

Recovery Efforts and Community Support

In an effort to recover and continue serving the community, the Covenant Food Kitchen is now asking for financial donations to replace the broken refrigerator. Although the pantry currently has limited cold storage capacity, they are encouraging the public to donate again once the necessary equipment is in place. Local businesses have shown great support, with nearly two dozen businesses in Willimantic and surrounding towns rallying to raise funds and food donations.

Jeff LeBlanc, president of NAPA Willimantic Auto & Truck Supply, who launched a fundraising campaign seven years ago for the Covenant Food Kitchen and Make-A-Wish, is expanding this year's efforts. "There’s 19 businesses with 21 locations, and we’re going to push it a little further to help the soup kitchen recover," he said.

Last year, the campaign raised more than $25,000 for local causes, along with thousands of pounds of food. This year, the need is even greater. Scott Miller, owner of Miller Brothers Self Storage, emphasized that every little bit helps. "Even if it’s a dollar, a dollar will help."

Collection Locations and Donation Options

Collection locations for food and donations include Beaver Brook Saw Shop in Scotland, CT; Willimantic Auto Truck Supply in Willimantic, CT; Miller Brothers Self Storage in South Windham, CT; C.C. Lounsbury, Inc. in South Windham, CT; Scotland Spirits in Scotland, CT; Capital Garage Chrysler Jeep Ram in Willimantic, CT; Wile Hyundai in Columbia, CT; Champagne Motor Car Company in Mansfield, CT; Columbia Ford Kia in Columbia, CT; Gates Buick GMC Nissan in North Windham, CT; Willimantic Autoworks in Willimantic, CT; Windham Region Transit District Operations of Husky Go in Mansfield, CT; Certified Auto Repair in Columbia, CT; Casella Waste in Willimantic and Sprague, CT; Liberty Bank in Willimantic, CT; Windham Technical High School in Willimantic, CT; Rose Brothers Garage in Columbia and North Windham, CT; Lake View Restaurant in Coventry, CT; and Windham Golf Course and Fairways Bar & Grill in North Windham, CT.

Donations can also be made in person during the pantry’s hours of operation or through the Venmo or Paypal app. However, it is important to be vigilant as a fake Venmo account has been created in an attempt to scam well-meaning supporters. For verified donation details, visit the pantry’s official page.

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