March 26, 2020
Hope House Food Pantry Update
I hope everyone is well. This information outlines our current situation regarding volunteer staffing, dates open, and procedures for food distribution at the Hope House Pantry during the coronavirus situation.
At Hope House, we have a staff of 16 regularly scheduled volunteers who support all of the operations of the Food Pantry. A majority of the volunteers advised us that they would not be available to assist at the pantry until the covid-19 crisis had sufficiently subsided. They are in the "age at risk" category, and many are also responsible for caring for elderly family members or grandchildren.
During the time period of 3/16 to 3/25, we had a total of 4 volunteers, each available on varying days, for the preparation of the pre-filled bags and the distribution to our clients and others in need.
The pantry was open for regular hours on March 16 and 17, and was also open on Wednesday, March 25 from 10am-1pm. The next date that we are scheduled to be open is Wednesday, April 1 from 10am-1pm. We prefer that clients and others call ahead for an appointment, if possible.
Thursday, March 26: Closed to the public
Calls for appointments for 4/1 will be answered
Monday, March 30: Closed to the public
Calls for appointments for 4/1 will be answered
Tuesday, March 31: Closed to the public
9:30-12:30 Preparation of pre-filled bags for 4/1
Staff available - 3 volunteers, pantry coordinator
Plan is to pre-fill at least an additional 35 bags
Wednesday, April 1: Pantry hours 10am-1pm
Staff available - 1 volunteer, pantry coordinator
site director, office manager
Pre-filled bags will be distributed
At this time, we are able to provide a good variety and quantity of non-perishable and frozen/refrigerated items to our clients and others in need. Several of our regular donors have indicated that they anticipate being able to continue to donate to us, even if at reduced quantities.
Thank you for you continued support and understanding as we navigate and implement changes to our pantry distribution procedures.
March 23, 2020
Online AA Meetings
March 23, 2020
In keeping with federal and state guidelines with regard to social distancing. Catholic Charities has asked all group leaders of (outpatient) AA meetings to temporarily suspend in-person meetings. Meetings were held at Straight and Narrow and at Hope House in Dover We recognize how important this is to the recovery community and hope to resume these soon. Those with questions can email info@ccpaterson.org.
Below is information for online AA Meetings:
Update: Hope House Food Pantry Hours Amid the Coronavirus Pandemic
March 17, 2020
Hope House, Dover
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday From 9:30 am to 1:00pm, and Again on Thursday from 4:00pm to 6:00 pm.
Update: Hope House Note on Emergency Closings
March 16, 2020
In case of future emergency closings, before you visit us next time, please call us before coming to make sure we are open. There will be a message in our front desk voicemail. You may access that message by dialing:
973-361-5555 ext. 3000
Thank you for your patience and understanding during this trying time for our community and nation.