As we have done for the past several years, MAPL set aside the month of December for our Food for Fines program. During the month, we waived patrons' overdue fines and library card replacement fees in exchange for a donation to the Matawan Food Pantry. We collected more than 30 crates of non-perishable food and household items, and our Youth Services staff and teen volunteers put together soup and cookie mix packages that filled another 9 boxes. For those of you interested in statistics, we had 508 Food for Fines transactions, and we waived $467.25 in fines. Of course, the bottom line of this program is that we were able to help many fellow community members, especially during post-Sandy times and the holidays.
I received the following note today:
Dear Kimberly,
Thank you so much for the support the Library has given to the Matawan Community Food Pantry this holiday season. The tremendous amount of food collected during your "Food for Fines" program is truly amazing and really appreciated. And Chrissie McGovern and her enthusiastic youth cheered our clients with soup and cookie mixes for Christmas. Please know how grateful we are and that you are making a difference in the lives of our neighbors (70+ households) in need.
Sis DeMarco - Coordinator
Matawan Community Food Pantry
I want to thank my staff and all of the patrons who contributed to the donations this year. Please also note that we have a crate available for donations throughout the year -- it is located in the Friends' Book Sale area across from the circulation desk. While fines are only forgiven in December, we know that folks are hungry all year 'round. Please think about bringing in some non-perishable food items the next time you stop by!
Happy New Year to all!
Kimberly
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