Senator Witkos Highlights the work of Friendly Hands Food Bank

Torrington, CT – State Senator Kevin Witkos (R-Canton) recently visited the Friendly Hands Food Bank in Torrington to speak with Executive Director Karen Thomas and Board President Danny Harnett to discuss the need for services faced by families across the region and the work that the food bank is doing to support those in need.

“Hunger and food insecurity is sadly a reality for many families in practically every single town in Connecticut. The Covid-19 pandemic and ensuing unemployment issues have exacerbated this issue for many families as well. While we often think of making a donation to a local food bank during the holiday season, the need exists all 12 months out of the year. The work that Karen, her staff, and her volunteers accomplish every day is life changing for so many people, and there are many similar entities across Connecticut that do this work day in day out. Too frequently they are unsung heroes and I personally am grateful for their tireless passion and dedication to helping others. During our meeting, Karen shared several instances of people donating their stimulus checks or attending food distribution events simply to make a donation. In these trying times these examples of generosity are even more heartwarming” said Senator Witkos.

“I encourage anyone who is struggling to contact 2-1-1 info line to receive information on what services exist in your region. There are many organizations like Friendly Hands Food Bank who are there to help and their work is needed now more than ever” Senator Witkos.

The Friendly Hands Food Bank currently serves approximately 800 clients from throughout the entire Litchfield County region.  This number has tripled since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.   Over the past several weeks Friendly Hands Food Bank has been coordinating food distribution events at in Torrington for anyone in need.   For more information on the food bank, please call 860-482-3338, or find them online at https://www.friendlyhandsfoodbanknwct.org/

Senator Kevin Witkos (L) speaks to Friendly Hands Food Bank Board President Danny Harnett (R) in a store room at about their current donation needs.