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The organization received a $10,000 "Dollars for Doers" grant from Pepperidge Farm, a subsidiary of the Campbell Soup Company, based in Norwalk.
The money will go into a general operation fund to help with the emergency services said Troy Ellen Dixon, Head of Marketing & Communications.
The grant was based on the volunteer service of 200 employees of the company who volunteered in May for a day of service to sort and stock more than 59,000 pounds of food donated by postal customers in Norwalk and Wilton on National Association of Letter Carriers' Food Drive.
Person-to-Person operates two food pantries, in Norwalk and Darien and serves seven communities, Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, New Canaan, Weston, Wilton, and Westport, she explained.
Individuals that need the help get referrals from social service providers. Many don't qualify for government assistance but still eligible for supplemental food, said Dixon.
"There's a great deal of hunger in Fairfield County, people struggling and living in poverty."
She noted that 90 percent of the donations to the organization go directly to pay for client services. Person-to-Person has 10 paid staff, case workers, social workers and other professionals.
In addition, an army of volunteers, some 4,000 people, help keep things running smoothly, from taking turns at shifts in the clothing center, food pantry, and reception area.
Campbell Soup Foundation created the “Dollars for Doers” Program to provide contributions to nonprofit organizations with which employees are actively involved as volunteers.
The grant serves as a “thank you” to P2P and the employee volunteers for making a difference in their community.
P2P Executive Director Ceci Maher is grateful for this grant, noting that the effort of the Pepperidge Farm volunteers was very impressive and much appreciated.
“That their service resulted in a $10,000 donation underscores the company’s commitment to the P2P mission and the work that we do providing emergency assistance for basic needs and support for individuals as they move towards stability.”
About Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person, Inc. was established in 1968 to provide low-income individuals and families living in Lower Fairfield County with basic emergency services.
Programs include Emergency Assistance, Campership, and Scholarship.
Click here for more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities.
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