Clinton Township Newsletter

1 0 n o v e m b e r 2 0 2 2 W W W . C L I N T O N T W P N E W S L E T T E R . C O M o P e n C u P b o a R d F o o d P a n t R y As we turn the corner on the pandemic, we are approaching a new and different reality. At the Open Cupboard Food Pantry, we take great pride in helping our neighbors and providing those who are unable to fill their pantries, fill them. Throughout the pandemic we relied heavily on our community to support our pantry with non- perishables and monetary donations to keep our shelves full and our clients satisfied. During this Autumn season we are grateful for the continued support of our neighbors. Our client-base has seen a substantial increase. We are serving more families that we have ever served in our 30-year history. We have seen a 45% increase in persons served this summer from June to September and a staggering 341% increase in brand new clients. Our mission at Open Cupboard Food Pantry is a strong one and one we strive to strictly adhere. Our purpose lies simply in the statement "neighbors helping neighbors." The need is great and the area we serve is plenty. Our neighborhood is expanding! We are opening a second location this Fall and we are in search of sustainable donors. Expanding our impact and serving more neighbors has been a focused goal. The volunteers that continue to lend their time, commitment and heart, are how we are able to extend our reach. Serving one's community is an enriching and gratifying way to give back. During our expansion and as we open a second pantry in Washington Township, Warren County – I encourage our community, our business owners and our neighbors, to give what they can. Time, food, financial and merchandise for our shop; are all important in assisting our ability to sustain and provide. Our agency, as a whole and more specifically myself, thank you for all you have done and continue to do in support of your pantry. – Jennifer Tavormina, Executive Director – Open Cupboard Food Pantry e x P e R i e n C e s o F t R a n s C e n d e n C e Choices. Where to place effort With whom to open the heart The cause to follow Where to begin in this complicated world? So much to do. Find the ones who color the world Follow the heart to the rainbow's end Climb mountains Weather storms Ride the wave Believe Be the light. They say 'Time Heals all Wounds.' I've come to realize Time can never heal a deep wound, however, Time does lessen the pain. It gives us a chance to pause, to find courage and strength to move on, and if lucky to grow, dare I say transcend the sadness and grief. I wish there were a fixed amount of time to grieve or even a guarantee that one will rebound anew replacing the darkness with creative light illuminating a new path forward. I wish I understood the regenerating force and could share it with others in need: the friend who lost a parent, the substance misuser who wants to live drug-free, the inner child in us who feels alone and frightened. Transcendence seems magical and out of reach. If only I could get there … I believe wisdom comes with age. After all, growing old must have some benefits to outweigh the achy bones and gradual slowing down. I find if I am quiet enough and if I lean into the fear behind the pain instead of pushing it away trying not to think then a wonderous inner force can shine through. I sense peace, renewed grace, and transcendence. The universal forces align, a door opens, and I step through. It happens in an instant and I hope to research it further by talking to others about their experiences of transcendence. If you are interested, email me: triosmom@hotmail.com Please write 'Transcendence' in the subject line. – Laurie Hills "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to uer words, but to live by them." ~ John Fitzgerald Kennedy

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