“This Thanksgiving, our community united in a powerful display of generosity and compassion to provide over 500 families with meal baskets. The heartwarming event highlighted the immense need for food security in our towns, and exposed the stark reality of a hidden crisis: the stigma surrounding food banks.
The fear of judgment, the feeling of failure, and the misconception that someone else “needs it more” prevent many families from seeking help. These deeply rooted stigmas keep our neighbors in need from accessing the resources they deserve.
The Seymour Oxford Food Bank has seen a 100% increase in visitors, not because of increased need, but due to our increased accessibility and welcoming culture. The reality remains that in Seymour and Oxford, there are 350 households living in poverty and 2,958 ALICE families in our communities. ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) represents households that are above the federal poverty level but still struggle to afford basic necessities.
We are grateful for the support from our community, which has made a real difference in the lives of many families in need. Organizations like All In for Oxford help raise awareness and take action against food insecurity, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
Let’s continue to work together to create a community where no one goes hungry, where everyone feels valued, and where asking for help is seen as a sign of strength. By standing united, we can make a lasting impact and ensure that no one in our community is left behind.
Thank you for your generosity and compassion this holiday season. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone has access to the resources they deserve.”
Kristina Walton
Oxford Ct
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