Video Update for April 20
Good evening Melrose. This is your mayor, Paul Brodeur.
First, a shout out to the many runners in Melrose who have been training for the Boston Marathon, particularly those of you who raise money for many well-deserving charities. Keep working because the marathon will return, and all your hard work will pay off.
I also want to thank a couple of merchants who donated PPEs recently. Sushi Corner recently donated 100 paper masks and Giacomo’s has donated gloves and toilet paper. The Board of Health is distributing these items where needed. Thanks to these two local businesses and many others who are helping during this challenging time.
As you have heard me say before, hunger is a growing problem in Melrose and throughout Massachusetts. You can fight hunger and help those in need. There is a Kids of Melrose food drive for Bread of Life, and they will do a no contact front door or porch pickup of non-perishable food items. Next pick up is on April 23 at noon. Also, Chris Cinella of Edward Jones is accepting donations for Bread of Life at his office at 502 Main Street. Melrose Helps volunteers are also available to pick up food donations.
And if you need help, there are several organizations that provide food. Their websites and contact will appear on the screen. Melrose Helps can also provide support with your food needs. However, anyone who is experiencing food insecurity should also apply for SNAP benefits. SNAP benefits are a government funded benefit for all people who qualify. SNAP provides cash assistance directly to people who qualify. You can use that assistance to buy the food and certain other you need at any business that accepts SNAP, and most do. There is no stigma to applying for or accepting SNAP benefits. The benefits are for anyone who needs help. If you are unsure of whether or not you are eligible, please reach out for more information. Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline can guide you through the process. Call 800-645-8333 Monday through Friday from 8 am to 7 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm. Get the help you deserve.
Finally, you may have noticed that flags in Melrose and throughout Massachusetts are half-mast today. Governor Baker ordered this to honor our veterans at the Holyoke Soldiers Home who recently lost their lives due to the pandemic. Please take a moment to remember their service and sacrifice.
Thank you, and remember that if you need help, please ask. If you can help, please do. Together, we will get through this.
Project Bread
800-645-8333
800-377-1292 TTY
Melrose Kids Food Drive for Bread of Life
or go to the Melrose MA Community Page on Facebook to signup for a donation pickup.
Pantry of Hope
781-665-4470
A Servant’s Heart Food Pantry
781-662-8226