Westbrook Families Feeding Families was founded about 12 years ago by Sue Salisbury and her mother Judy Petrie. At that time, there was a 5 to 7-day gap from school end to the start of the summer lunch program. Their focus was on bringing peanut butter, jelly and bread to summer lunch sites to fill that lunch food gap. That humble start grew to 110 bags delivered to Westbrook’s three elementary schools each week (pre-pandemic) and helping to stock shelves at the WHS and WMS food pantries.During the pandemic, they have been bringing their bags to school meal delivery sites. In addition to PB & J, these bags contain other kid-friendly foods that don’t require “other things” to make – think milk & butter - like canned spaghetti and microwaveable mac & cheese bowls, as well as items like toilet paper and tissues. In addition, 20 families receive groceries each week. WFFF receives referrals from school social workers, the homeless coordinator at the high school and through other social workers in the community. They can also be contacted directly through their Facebook page.
Up until very recently, donated non-perishable items had been dropped on Sue’s doorstep and stored in her garage However, thanks to Westbrook Market on Stroudwater St, they now have warehouse space. The community has donated shelving, freezers and a refrigerator so WFFF can make best use of the space. With this new space and equipment, they are hoping to be able to mix some fresh and frozen items into their offerings.
Prior to 2020, they did not receive monetary donations, but the pandemic changed that. WFFF’s application with the state for 501(c)3 status is pending and a bank account has been opened so that they can now receive cash donations. In fact, they recently received a generous donation from Patriot Subaru raised during a sales promotion. They are currently in the process of forming a board of directors.
After Sue’s presentation, President Kathi announced that $100 she received from the District earmarked for food insecurity is being donated to Westbrook Families Feeding Families. Also, WFF was a recipient of masks from the most recent Rotary Million Mask Challenge to help families they support. For more information, of if you would like to help, contact Suzanne Salisbury at suzanne.salisbury35@gmail.com or call 207-899-6863. Sue and her husband Joe own the Daily Grind in Westbrook.