Shelves of Assumption Food Pantry begin filling up on Tuesday
/ Tom Eschen
SYRACUSE -- While watching the morning news Tuesday, one story in particular pulled at the heart strings of car dealer Billy Fuccillo.
The Assumption Food Pantry on Syracuse's North Side is in dire straights and may not be able to help out the hundreds of families it serves. The pantry needs thousands of dollars so it doesn't have to close at the end of the year.
Billy Fuccillo and his son Billy Fuccillo Jr. were touched by the story and they decided to donate up to $50,000. They are urging Central New Yorkers to give and will match donations up to that amount.
Click here to donate
CNY Central is partnering with Billy Fuccillo and Billy Fuccillo Jr. to help raise money and awareness for the Assumption Food Pantry. CNY Central will be running announcements with Billy Fuccillo on its stations now through the holidays.
The Assumption Food Pantry is located on North Salina Street in Syracuse. Just three years ago, 135 families were registered to receive food each month but has grown to now serve 900 families. If the pantry can't stay open, all 900 families would be without the help they rely on.
"We feel that nobody, nobody here in Central New York should go without food in their tummy," Fuccillo said. "It's about getting everybody in the community to feel like they are doing the right thing and that's what Syracuse and Central New York has always been about since I've been here."
Fuccillo is asking people to donate whatever they can, whether it's a donation of $1, $2 or $5. He says everyone is entitled to food and this story really compelled him and his son to step up.
"It's really important for us to be involved in the community and give back because they give so much to us," Fuccillo said.
The food pantry offers a daily sandwich program, which offers a free bag lunch to anyone who walks in the door, regardless of need. They see this as a way to meet an immediate need in people’s lives.
The food pantry is one of the oldest in Central New York and has been helping the needy since the 1860's. The increased need is straining the pantry's supplies and budget. Without immediate help, Spano says the pantry will have to shut down at the end of the year.
Brother Nicholas Spano says the pantry's needs immediate donations of money and food. Assumption Church owes approximately $19,000 to the Food Bank. Spano says if they can pay that bill, the Assumption Pantry can resume buying food essentials at bulk and discounted prices.
To donate, visit the Church of Assumption's website or click here for more information about the Food Pantry.
