Salvation Army of Greater Valley kicks off Kettle season, Reopens Food Pantry
ANSONIA – Last week, the Greater Valley Salvation Army held its Kettle Kick-off and food pantry reopening.
The Salvation Army of Greater Valley opened in 1891 and has been committed to meeting the needs in the communities in which it serves. The Greater Valley Salvation Army proudly serves families in Ansonia, Debry, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton.
The Salvation Army kicked off its Christmas season with Ansonia Mayor David S. Cassetti, present for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the newly renovated food pantry.
In 2021, The Salvation Army of Greater Valley served over 24,300 meals, provided over 450 families with Thanksgiving baskets, distributed over 300 Christmas toys, and served over 1,400 individuals.
“This last year we’ve had a true labor of love, the makeover of our food pantry. There are many people to thank for this opportunity to strengthen our food pantry services,” said Captain Cheryl McCollum, officer in charge of the Greater Valley Salvation Army.
The new food pantry will feature a “client choice” experience, offering a dignified and enriching outing while providing hearty, nutritious meal options. The new food pantry will also implement SWAP (Supporting Wellness at Pantries) stoplight system by nutritionally ranking the food that is distributed by the food pantry. Participants will not only have an easier time navigating through the store but will also be able to easily identify healthier food options.
“With the addition of fresh paint, new freezers, shelving, and seating, our “client choice food pantry” now offers a dignified and enriching experience for our clients,” said McCollum.