Oxford/Orion FISH’s pantry will be fuller thanks to Oxford Township. Last week, the township board awarded an emergency services contract to the organization in the amount of $5,072.
‘It’s going to be a tremendous help,? said FISH Pantry Coordinator Val Cass, of Oxford.
The money came from the 2009 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds the township receives from the federal government via Oakland County.
‘We so appreciate getting (this CDBG money) again this year,? Cass said. ‘We don’t get any from Orion. Orion uses theirs all for the North Oakland Transportation Authority.?
Through its offices and pantry, located at 487 First Street in Thomas, FISH helps residents in need by feeding hungry individuals and families with free groceries; helping to pay utility bills, rent/mortgage payments and medical expenses; and providing educational assistance in the form of new backpacks and school supplies.
‘We’ve been giving out about 15,000 pounds of food a month,? Cass noted. ‘We depend on our donations, but the need now has surpassed that, to the point where we’re buying a lot more of our food.?
This year alone FISH has provided emergency services to 170 families living in Oxford Township.