The Manager of Emergency Services for Catholic Charities of Broome County, Mary Whitcomb is the guest on the weekly, local public affairs program Southern Tier Close Up and says, in spite of decades of work to fight hunger in the region, the need persists.

Kathy Whyte/ WNBF News
Kathy Whyte/ WNBF News
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Whitcomb says Catholic Charities not only runs pantries in the region, providing balanced food choices to families facing food insecurity in the region but also has a big focus placed on addressing the underlying issues that lead to poverty and hunger.

Whitcomb says there are some people who, erroneously, believe people abuse the system when provided food support on a regular basis.  She points out how very hard it is for people to go to a pantry or other program to ask for assistance.  Still, Whitcomb says, demand placed on organizations like Catholic Charities, the Food Bank of the Southern Tier and CHOW remains high.

The need becomes even more pronounced toward the end of the year as families are faced with the ongoing issue of placing nutritious meals on the table but also being able to celebrate the holidays.

Catholic Charities is able to purchase food as well as accept food donations from agencies, businesses and individuals.

Information on services and how to donate can be found by calling (607) 584-7800, the offices at (607) 729-9166 and donations can be made online at www.catholiccharities.org.

Southern Tier Close Up is heard Sundy at 6 am on 99.1 The Whale.

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