In 2016, First Universalist Society in Franklin (FUSF) donated nearly 200 pounds of dry goods and food, and almost $500, to the Franklin Food Pantry . And every year, FUSF, like other houses of worship in Franklin, contributes to the Franklin Food Pantry’s Thanksgiving offering—200 cans of gravy or 200 boxes of stuffing or 200 cans of cranberry sauce—it depends on what they need.

Believe it or not, more than 3,000 Franklin residents (more than 9 percent) are struggling with food insecurity. If FUSF members are out shopping and find an excellent two-for-one deal, they can consider saving the second item for a donation. Health and beauty products, paper products, and cleaning supplies cannot be paid for with food stamps, so they are always welcome, as well as all kinds of canned food, cereal, and pasta. The blue box in FUSF’s foyer is taken to the Pantry and emptied regularly; please keep it in mind!