When we step back and take a look around us and take a deep look inside ourselves… things don’t fit. Perhaps people see how out of whack things are and, mindful of the imbalance, and when asked in a questionnaire, their consternation rises to the top. So, who are those lacking basic needs these days? As I have said before, we can not ignore the fact that the largest proportion of people who come to Dutchess Outreach's food pantry are those with either physically or psychologically disabling conditions, per manent or temporary, and unable to work. They find themselves on fixed public assistance, workers' compensation or disability income. Those on disability are often ineligible for Medicaid or one-time emergency public assistance. Many are left with little or nothing after the rent and light bill are paid, and the food stamps run out with seven to ten days to go before they may receive more.
There are also the growing ranks of the working poor. Some months almost a third of the people and families in need of food who come to Dutchess Outreach report that at least one member of the family is employed. Our emergency financial assistance program, which last year gave out more than $70,000 in grants to individuals, primarily goes to working people with families. Many of these working poor are earning two or three dollars above minimum wage and still find their income depleted either by the rising c ost of living (rent, utilities, transportation, food) or one time emergencies with catastrophic costs. Some lose their jobs or have their work hours drastically reduced then go too long before securing another job and quickly fall behind. Others fall victim to devastating diseases or crimes, especially domestic violence, and experience total loss of, or access to, needed resources.
When poor or "middle-income" people in the lower ranks not only can’t afford to properly feed themselves, but are also unable to purchase medicine when they're sick (without falling behind on their rent or utility bills), help is still very much needed.
It is critical for those of us who are never hungry, who may at times even eat for entertainment, to be aware and raise awareness of the fact that many people here in Dutchess County often go without proper nutrition AND NEED OUR HELP for such a basic and common human necessity.
We can be grateful that our donors, staff and volunteers have always paid attention to meeting people’s “basic needs.” We’ll keep on meeting them by responding on a day-by-day, case-by-case basis in a kind, sensitive, and sensible way.
Thank you,
Brian Riddell
Executive Director