ROCHESTER, N.Y. — As the government shutdown continues, the House of Mercy in Rochester is preparing for an increase in people needing assistance. Interim Executive Director Pam Smith said the organization was already seeing more visitors due to rising food prices.
“We do expect to have more people, if on November 1st people don’t get their benefits,” Smith said.
The House of Mercy relies heavily on donations to stock its food pantry. Director of Development Whitney Snead expressed concern about the potential strain on resources.
“We need those donations to increase if the need increases,” Snead said.
Currently, the food pantry operates one day a week, but Snead mentioned the possibility of needing to open more days to meet demand. “We may need to open more days, of course, to support those folks. But we just don’t know,” Snead said.
Guests at the House of Mercy, like Darryl Wilcox, are worried about how the potential increase in visitors could affect the food supply. “We’re struggling and we don’t really have any place to go except for the House of Mercy,” Wilcox said.
Tracy Long-Miles, another guest, shared her concerns about the impact on children. “I’m very concerned about the children…about how they’re supposed to eat,” Long-Miles said.
Those interested in donating to the House of Mercy can drop off contributions at their location at 285 Ormond Street.
For food assistance, people in need can call 211, visit MyWayfinder.org, or visit Foodlink’s website.
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