SWAMPSCOTT — Big Blue Bargains, a nonprofit thrift store, has donated $5,000 to Anchor Food Pantry in order to help those who may struggle with food insecurity in wake of the disruption to SNAP benefits that left many in a state of uncertainty.
Big Blue Bargains is a 501(c)(3) thrift store that “promotes conscious consumerism and directly funds or charitably donates to areas of need that benefit and strengthen the community of Swampscott,” according to its mission statement online.
Vice President Laura Lynn noted that the donation was “made possible thanks to the many donors (and) volunteers who help support Big Blue Bargains’ mission to improve our community of Swampscott,” and that “this donation is a perfect example of how small acts of kindness can lead to a grand gesture.”
Anchor Food Pantry — which is also a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization — serves community members throughout Swampscott and Nahant. It’s also one of 150 local nonprofits that share in $30 million through Cummings Foundation’s major annual grants program, selected from a total of 715 applicants during a competitive review process (per its website).
According to the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance, the latest data shows that there are approximately 1,071 SNAP users in Swampscott (or 6.8% of the Town’s population); in Nahant, the amount of users is 232, or 7.0% of the total 3,338 residents.
Lynn added that every small donation and purchase adds up.
“When we work together as a community, we can assist those facing food insecurity and improve the quality of life for everyone. Partnering with Anchor Food Pantry aligns with Big Blue Bargain’s mission to promote conscious consumerism and directly fund or donate to areas of need that benefit and strengthen the community of Swampscott,” Lynn said.
Susan Downs-Cripps, a longtime volunteer with Anchor Food Pantry, shared her gratitude for the support shown by Big Blue Bargains.
“Anchor Food Pantry is so grateful for the support from Big Blue Bargains and the residents of Swampscott and Nahant at this unfortunate time,” she said. “It is so rewarding to have full shelves with a wonderful selection of food for our visitors.”
Anchor Food Pantry is also looking to collect donations at the Reach Art Buildings in Swampscott, located at 89 Burrill Street, where its doors will be open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Nov. 15th.
It’s requesting that donations be made in the form of the following items:
- Canned corn, peas, and string beans
- Vegetables and canned fruits
- Apple sauce
- Soups (also canned)
- Shelf stable milk
- Pasta and pasta sauce
- Beans
- Coffee
