Mayor-elect Marty Walsh Visits Franciscan Food Center

riars-with-Mayor-Elect-WalshMayor-elect Mayor Marty Walsh stopped by St. Anthony Shrine & Ministry Center’s Thanksgiving food distribution yesterday to thank the Franciscan Friars and volunteers for their efforts feeding the poor of Boston.

“St. Anthony Shrine holds a special place in my heart, I came here often as a child to Mass and to light candles. The Friars do great work for the people of Boston.” said Mayor-elect Walsh.

The Franciscan Food Center supplies groceries to 400-450 members (families and individuals) each week. The Food Center feeds people who are hungry or food insecure by providing high-quality, nutritious food in an environment of dignity, compassion and respect.

“We have seen an increase if need in our Food Center and are other ministries as well, said Executive Director, Fr. Tom Conway, OFM. The increased need is being driven, in part, by the growing number of people falling below the poverty line, as they struggle to keep up with the rising cost of living, from food to utilities – many are not able to afford the tradition of a Thanksgiving meal this year.”

The demand is growing, but our food donations have decreased. The increase in food costs has also had a direct impact on our budget and ability to feed more families, said the Director of the Franciscan Food Center, Joyce Lonergan.

For more information about the Franciscan Food Center or St. Anthony Shrine contact, Maribeth MacDonald at617-542-6440 Ext. 147.