Summertime, when the living isn’t easy for all

It has been said that a good measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable members. Few countries can compare to America in this regard, but during the summer, it’s easy for any of us to forget about those who are struggling to come up with three square meals for themselves and their families.

Citing imminent shortages, the Middlesex County Food Organization and Outreach Distribution Services (MCFOODS) recently called on local businesses and corporations to take part in food drives and collections. The organization plays a key role throughout the county, supplying food to dozens of pantries and serving residents from numerous municipalities.

According to MCFOODS coordinator Jennifer Apostol, people tend to be most generous over the holiday season, but hunger is far from their minds in the summer. Adding to the problem, many youths who are fed breakfast and lunch at school don’t have that luxury from late June to early September, and their families are forced to rely more on local pantries.

Community service and youth organizations were also asked to help MCFOODS and encouraged to join with local businesses in one creative collection method. Over the next few months, you may encounter volunteers in front of your neighborhood grocery store suggesting items you can buy inside for MCFOODS. If you see these people, remember that they’re not out there for fresh air, but asking for help at a time of year when it’s needed most by far.