The Open Door Distributes More Than  2,600 Holiday Meal Baskets for Local People 

GLOUCESTER – Local families facing financial hardship have hearty holiday meals this year thanks to The Open Door Holiday Meal Basket program powered by the community. 

By the end of business on Wednesday, Dec. 24, The Open Door will have distributed more than 2,680 Holiday Meal Baskets for Thanksgiving and the December holidays. Each basket includes a turkey, ham, or special diet alternative, and all the fixings to prepare a special holiday meal at home.  

“For a senior welcoming their grandchildren for the holidays, or parents struggling to get by, celebrating the spirit of the season with a traditional meal of turkey or ham can build lasting memories and bring hope. Holiday Meal Baskets are a reminder that this community cares, and that our neighbors are not alone if they need help getting food,” said Julie LaFontaine, President and CEO.  

“The Holiday Meal Basket program is a big lift, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community. From our donors to our volunteers, it takes many hands to connect thousands of people to good food over the holidays and beyond. Thank you to everyone who helped not only keep our neighbors fed but made this time of year merry and bright for local people facing hard times,” said Gary Sprague, Director of Operations. 

Help for the New Year: Groceries, Meals and More 

As winter settles in, the cost of utilities will rise and local people may need extra help setting the table. If you need help getting food, apply to make weekly, custom grocery orders at no cost at FOODPANTRY.org/newshopper 

Emergency, same-day groceries can also be picked up during business hours, as well as meals to-go.  

The Gloucester Food Pantry at 28 Emerson Ave. is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  

The Ipswich Community Food Pantry at 00 Southern Heights in Ipswich is open Wednesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

Meals are also available for in-person dining at the Gloucester Food Pantry Monday through Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.  

Assistance with SNAP Applications is also available. Make an appointment with The Open Door Client Services Office at snap@foodpantry.org or call 978-283-6776 ext. 201. 

Want to Help? There is Still Time! 

The Open Door is deeply thankful to all who have already given this holiday season to help connect local people to good food.  

The need is great for food assistance in our community. Those who would like to give (or give again) can do so at FOODPANTRY.org/donate.  

About The Open Door    

The mission of The Open Door is to alleviate the impact of hunger in our community. We use practical strategies to connect people to good food, to advocate on behalf of those in need, and to engage others in the work of building food security.   

Founded in 1978, The Open Door is a 501 (c)(3) tax exempt nonprofit and community food resource center for low-income residents of Gloucester, Rockport, Manchester, Essex, Ipswich, Hamilton, Boxford, Rowley, Topsfield, Wenham, and Georgetown.  In 2024, The Open Door distributed 2.35 million pounds of food to 11,893 people through its programs.  The nonprofit met a 30% increase in requests for food assistance in 2024 through 100,774 visits on top of a 30% increase in 2023. 

For more information, visit FOODPANTRY.org.   

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