Superintendent John Robidoux sent an email to Marblehead parents and guardians regarding the expected pause in federal food aid benefits as of Nov. 1, due to the government shutdown.
“While it’s uncertain whether the shutdown will continue, this could create a sudden gap for families who rely on SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) for food. Local food pantries are aware and preparing, but resources are limited — especially with
Thanksgiving approaching. These community resources may be helpful whether or not the shutdown affects November benefits,” according to the email.
The email suggests several ways people can get involved through local organizations, including the Marblehead Food Pantry. The pantry serves more than 100 registered families and expects this number to grow in the coming weeks.
To learn more about how to donate food or money, click this link: https://marbleheadfoodpantry.org/#donations.
For those who need support, these are some of the available resources in the community:
Marblehead Food Pantry
marbleheadfoodpantry.org
Hours: Tuesdays 9 am–12 pm, Thursdays 5 pm–7 pm
Location: Star of the Sea Parish Center, 80 Atlantic Avenue, Marblehead
Other information:
● Open to Marblehead residents with photo ID and proof of residency (e.g., a bill)
● No income verification or detailed questions required
● Marblehead residents may visit once per week
● Salem Mobile Pantry visit: November 4, 9 am–11 am
● Thanksgiving distribution: November 22, 9 am–12 pm for registered clients of the
Marblehead Food Pantry. The deadline to sign up for Thanksgiving is October 30.
Registration is in person during distribution hours.
Salem Pantry (The Market)
thesalempantry.org/the-market
Hours: Open five days a week; families may visit once per week. See specific hours here:
https://thesalempantry.org/events/category/fall-hours/
Location: 47 Leavitt St., Salem
Other information: Families can preregister online, or at first visit
Marblehead Little Free Pantry
littlefreepantrymhd.weebly.com
Hours: Open-access pantry available anytime
Location: Marblehead Community Charter Public School, 17 Lime St., Marblehead
Other information: Shelf-stable items available anytime, no registration needed.
Family Table (Temple Sinai)
templesinaiweb.org/social-action/food-pantry
Hours: Varies; food pantry and delivery program
Location: Marblehead (Temple Sinai)
Other information: Program serves local families; learn how to become a client through this
website: https://www.jfcsboston.org/our-services/center-for-basic-needs-assistance/family-table-
food-pantry/become-a-family-table-client
Making Ends Meet
https://www.makingendsmeetmhead.org/
Provides emergency financial assistance and material support
Marblehead Female Humane Society
https://marbleheadfemalehumanesociety.com/referrals/
Provides emergency financial assistance and material support
The Marblehead Counseling Center
https://www.marbleheadcounseling.org/services/social-services/
They can help connect you with community support organizations. You can call them at 781-631-8273
Local faith-based organizations may also be able to provide emergency support.
People who need help navigating resources should contact their child’s school counselor for guidance. The resources were compiled by counselor Kaitlyn LeBaron with members of the district’s counseling team.
