Back in August, Annabel Wulfhart, Founder, Papermill Food Hub, spoke at Chestnut Hill Rotary’s breakfast program about the vital work of her organization does to provide food and other needed supplies for residents in the Kensington section of Philadelphia.
Annabel Wulfhart, Founder. Papermill Food Hub.
Once the resident of nearby Mt. Airy spoke, member and Community Service Chair, Maggie Stoeffel knew that the club had to help. After speaking with Wulfhart, it was clear that a food drive would be the most effective way to help.
Wulfhart, a social worker, started Papermill Food Hub — named because of the building’s previous use — witnessing first-hand the living conditions of some of her clients in Kensington section of Philadelphia.
Every week, her team of volunteers brings a box of grocery and pantry items, including diapers, detergent, and toilet paper to in-need families in Kensington. They also partner with block captains, early intervention teachers, and a local soccer club to identify families that are in the most need of assistance. The organization is located in Kensington, a neighborhood struggling with the opioid epidemic, COVID-19, and rampant unemployment. Kensington is located in a “food desert”, meaning there is a lack of access to grocery stores in the area.
Items that are most in need are listed on the attached flyer including supplies and discount grocery store gift cards.
“Anything that works for your family or something that your kids love,” said Wulfhart. “It doesn’t have to be enough for all the families. Anything you know as a parent that works for either a quick dinner for your kids after a long day of work, or something they can make for themselves as an after school snack, or eat while running for the school bus.”
The public is welcomed to drop off food items Wednesday, November 27, from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Center on the Hill, Widener Hall, 8855 Germantown Avenue (next to Chestnut Hill Hospital). Free parking is available behind the Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill. Donors can also visit the Amazon Wish List to make a donation.
Volunteer members will be receiving the donations and sort for delivery to Papermill Food Hub that day.
