Food Collection for Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center December 1, 2008

In the spirit of the season, Sea Research Foundation’s Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration is working with the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center to provide food to local residents throughout the holidays and beyond.

The aquarium is collecting canned food items outside the admission gate through December 31. Those who donate food will be entered to win one of two Penguin Encounter programs or an original piece of art created by the aquarium’s resident penguins.

“As a non-profit, we understand the importance of receiving community support,” said Peter Glankoff, senior vice president of marketing and public affairs at Sea Research. “The number of local families in need of food is an important issue that needs immediate attention. Now more than ever, our community must come together to ensure its residents remain healthy throughout these challenging economic times.”

"The cost of food has risen dramatically. We're seeing many new families seeking help for basic needs,” said Vicki Anderson, executive director of the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center. “The Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center has the largest emergency food pantry is southeastern Connecticut. We are the last safety net for hundreds of people."
Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration is located right off of exit 90 on I-95.

About the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center
The Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center provides a variety of services to improve and enhance the quality of life of residents of all ages living within its service area of Stonington, North Stonington, Mystic, Old Mystic, Pawcatuck and Westerly, R.I. The center provides clients with basic human needs, such as energy assistance, clothing and personal care items, social interaction and free transportation for eligible seniors to obtain medical care.