One of the largest food pantries in Stratford, in 2009 the pantry provided food for more than 7,000 people, and food for more than 62,000 meals, the agency said in a statement.

The pantry also provided new back packs with school supplies to more than 300 children this September.

Last year the pantry provided all the fixings for a complete Thanksgiving meal to more than 200 families

The pantry now has a new storage room for food renovated by a local Eagle Scout and is asking the public to help fill it. The following food items are needed: Canned soups, vegetables, fruits, tuna, chicken and ham. Also, single serving items such as ravioli, corn beef hash, chili, rice items (white rice, Rice A Roni), instant mashed potatoes, hot and cold cereals, peanut butter & jelly, crackers pasta and pasta sauce.

For more information call Ray O’Donnell, food pantry manager at Sterling House; 203-378-2606, Ext. 110 or rodonnell@sterlinghousecc.org