Kent Public Library, in collaboration with United Way of Westchester and Putnam and the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley, is excited to announce a new initiative aimed at supporting families with children who are facing food insecurity. Families interested in receiving weekly bags of groceries should sign up for the summer grocery backpack program by July 3rd. The program will run from July 11 to August 22.
In partnership with United Way, Kent Library is offering two convenient options for families to access food assistance:
Option 1: DoorDash Delivery
Families residing in Putnam County can sign up online at uwwp.org/putnam to receive weekly deliveries of food via DoorDash every Thursday morning or early afternoon. In addition to food deliveries, participants will receive daily online texts and access to digital activities provided by United Way. For those unable to sign up online, assistance is available at the library's circulation desk to ensure inclusion in the program.
Option 2: Pick Up at Kent Library
Alternatively, families can opt to pick up their food bags directly from Kent Library. Participants are encouraged to fill out a form at the library circulation desk indicating their preferred day (Thursdays through Saturdays) and time for pickup. Curbside pickup options are available upon request, although it is not mandatory to select a regular pickup day if the preference is to collect food inside the library. Participants can also sign up by calling 845-306-5537 or emailing library@KentLibrary.org
"Families facing food insecurity often have limited options, and we are proud to collaborate with United Way to offer additional support through this program," said Library Director, Carol Donick "Our goal is to alleviate some of the burden by providing essential food items and school supplies to ensure that children and their families have the resources they need during this challenging time."