Bristol Blues partner with United Way to collect canned food to help supply non-profit organizations
Published on Thursday, 21 May 2020 13:48
Written by BRIAN M. JOHNSON
@brianjohnsonBP
BRISTOL – The United Way of West Central CT collected canned food donations at two locations Thursday, in an effort to help supply non-profit organizations that meet the needs of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The can drive was held in the parking lot of the United Way office with a trailer donated by Yankee Harley Davidson, and at Terryville Chevrolet in Plymouth with a van that the dealership had provided for the collection. It was held at two times, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5:30 to 7 p.m., at both locations.
Donna Osuch, president and CPO of United Way of West Central CT, said that the donated food will support Brian’s Angels, Meals For Neighbors, The Salvation Army, Veterans Strong, St. Vincent DePaul and Grace Baptist Church.
“We’re excited to see the support we’ve received,” she said.
At the N. Main St. collection site, Patti Philippon, executive director of the American Clock and Watch Museum, and Laura Watson, a past president of Rotary Club of Bristol CT, were among those bringing by donations.
Philippon had brought over pop top soups, tuna, macaroni and cheese and Pringles chips.
“It’s for a good cause,” she said. “During the pandemic there are a lot of people in need so I wanted to donate to support the people that need help.”
Watson had brought over cereal and granola bars.
“I realized that this year, more than ever, people will be in need of ‘grab and go’ food,” she said. “I’m happy to help supply our food pantries and non-profits with items.”
At the Terryville Chevrolet donation site, Lori Theriault was dropping off donations of tuna, soup, macaroni and cheese and peanut butter. This was her second time contributing to a United Way collection.
“During this uncertain time it is important to keep our food banks stocked,” she said.
Assisting the United Way with sorting and unloading the donations was Nick Rascati, general manager of The Bristol Blues.
“This is a great opportunity to help the community,” he said. “Since we can’t provide a season like we normally do, we’re helping out in any way that we can. It’s a great cause.”
Judi Ann Lausier, resource development coordinator with United Way of West Central Connecticut, said that the support that the can drive received is a “true testament to the community.”
“There are more people in need than ever before with all of those affected by layoffs and furloughs,” she said. “Seeing everyone working together to help each other out shows that we’re living in a great community that lives united.”
Next week, on Tuesday May 26 and May 27 from 11:30 to 1 p.m., United Way of West Central CT will hold another fundraiser at their 440 N. Main St. location. They will be collecting food and paper products. Items especially needed are tuna, chicken, beans, bread, peanut butter, jelly, snacks and water.
Cash or checks made out to United Way of West Central Connecticut can be accepted at the drop-off site as well.
For questions, call Nancy Micloskey at 860-582-9559, EXT. 402 or email nmicloskey@uwwestcentralct.org.
Brian M. Johnson can be reached at 860-973-1806 or bjohnson@bristolpress.com.
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