Food pantries in the Capital Region supply a lot of demand year-round. However, special circumstances sometimes add to the pressure.

Right now, Code Blue weather emergencies and the temporary partial federal government shutdown reportedly are pushing more people than usual to seek assistance from the pantries. So, as SRC member Shannon Romanowski informs us, the local YMCA branches and the CP Com Federal Credit Union are making an effort to help, and are asking members of the Southern Rensselaer County Rotary Club to assist in the effort.

Through Thursday, February 28, YMCA locations such as those in East Greenbush and Troy will serve as drop-off locations, as will all CAP COM branch locations. They will be accepting non-perishable food items and personal care items.

Items in high demand:

Canned tuna
Canned chicken
Kidney beans
Black beans
Peanut butter
Stuffing
Spaghetti-O’s
Pancake mix
Sugar

Obviously, any other non-perishable food and personal hygiene items (diapers, oral care, feminine hygiene products, powdered milk, uncooked pastas, canned fruits and sauces, etc., would be helpful.

Food and funds will be distributed to benefit the following locations in Rensselaer County and elsewhere:

• Hope 7 Community Center, Troy
• Joseph’s House, Troy
• Unity House, Troy
• Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless, Albany
• Food Pantries for The Capital District, Albany