The Fulton County YMCA (The Y) is launching a brand-new service initiative called ‘Y Cares’ and its first project will be a food drive to help restock the Fulmont-Gloversville Food Pantry during these challenging times when the community need is heightened. The food drive event will be held on Monday, April 27 from 10AM to 3PM and will be run two ways—as a drive up/drop off for donating actual canned food and other needed items and as a virtual food drive so those that do not want to leave the safety of their home can still participate by donating online. The event was planned in consult with the Fulton County Public Health Department to be sure the food drive can be operated safely, following all social distancing recommendations. The health department will also be on-site the morning of the event to inspect the set up to be sure it is being optimally run with public health and safety in mind.
Community members wishing to donate to the food drive can enter the YMCA parking lot on Harrison Street in Johnstown and follow signage to the drop off stations. The public will be able to drop off donated items into drive-up collection boxes without leaving their car. Per the Food Pantry, needed items are as follows: peanut butter, Jelly, canned pasta, chili, soups, beef stew, boxed or bagged pasta, noodles, oatmeal, boxed pancake mix, boxed cereal, tuna or chicken or any canned meat, crackers, instant milk, canned vegetables, peas, corn, potatoes, spaghetti sauce, tuna helper, boxed rice, canned fruit, pork and beans and personal Care Items: including toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, toilet paper, diapers, laundry detergent, shampoo, etc. Health and safety instructions for those wishing to participate in the drive-up food drive will be posted on the Y’s Facebook page and website.
For the virtual food drive, a link will be added to the Fulton County Y Facebook page @FultonCountyY and website (www.fultoncountyymca.org) on the morning of April 27th for the public to donate directly to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY safely online.
The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. Working locally, the Y focuses on empowering young people, improving health and well-being and inspiring action in and across communities. The Fulton County Y’s fitness facility was ordered to temporarily close on March 16 as part of the state mandate, however essential services remain operational at this time including Emergency Childcare for first responders, health care professionals and essential workers; and the Y’s Residency in Gloversville which provides supportive housing for the homeless and potentially homeless. The new ‘Y Cares’ initiative will connect Fulton County Y staff and members with service opportunities to support local charities and community organizations.
For more information, please visit their website at: www.fultoncountyymca.org.