SAUGUS — As soon as COVID-19 hit the North Shore mid-March, bringing with it a wave of shutdowns that completely upended daily life, Anthony Cogliano went to work alongside several local businesses to make sure homebound residents would still have food on their tables.
Multiple times a week, the Saugus selectman and his helpers deliver food to immunocompromised or otherwise vulnerable residents for whom a trip to the grocery store or a takeout counter could be a life-threatening move.
“(People) privately message me or call me on my cell. No one knows who they are and I drop the food at the front door and go on my way,” he said. “Any time we can help other people, that’s what it’s all about.”
Cogliano said making the delivery service work has been a team effort, and town officials, local businesses, and residents have all donated their time, money, or resources to ensure everyone in the community is taken care of.
“The first person who called me was Steve Castraberti from Prince (Pizzeria) to say that he was willing to do anything that he could to help,” Cogliano said. “Then I ran into (Kowloon owner) Bobby Wong and talked to him and he said the same.”
Other businesses that have joined the efforts include Hammersmith restaurant, Wheelabrator Saugus, Lendy’s Deli, La Vita Mia, Rino’s Place, Angela’s Pizza, and Route 1 Grill House.
To get the word out, Cogliano posted what he was doing to Facebook.
“Every time we put something out, someone saw it and said, ‘we want to help,’ and it’s grown from there. We’ve turned nobody away.”
In total, Cogliano delivers to roughly 25 to 30 families on a regular basis.
“They call in and tell me what they want, whether it’s groceries or pre-made meals and … I go out and do the shopping for them and drop the items off at their house,” he said.
Prince Pizzeria owner Steven Castraberti, a longtime friend of Cogliano, said he was eager to give back.
“I said ‘Anthony, whenever you need something, let me know.’ I’m more than ready to help out in any way … We’re fortunate enough to be in business right now, so we’re very willing to give back to the community, whether it be senior citizens, first responders, or anyone working in hospitals or doctors’ offices.
“Whatever leads (Anthony) gives me, whatever suggestions he makes, I am 100 percent behind the efforts.”
Although the process of making and delivering food has become considerably more complicated due to additional safety measures, Castraberti said he doesn’t mind the extra work if it means he’s helping the community.
“It’s different, but I’m happy to do it,” he said. “There’s no shortage of people in need.”
Those interested in learning more can contact Cogliano on Facebook or call him at (857) 246-1305.
Elyse Carmosino can be reached at [email protected].
