Good Work and Good News: Meet Janet Hague, director of the Hatfield Food Cupboard

 One in a series of interviews with North Penn area local leaders working to help food-insecure neighbors and those experiencing homelessness. Meet Janet Hague, director of the Hatfield Food Cupboard. 

Janet, what is most satisfying about your work with the Hatfield Food Cupboard?

I find it incredibly rewarding to help senior citizens, especially widows, facing food insecurity. Their gratitude is heartwarming; even a fresh vegetable or milk can bring a smile to their faces and a sense of relief. I also enjoy assisting newcomers to the country who struggle with language barriers and food or housing issues. As a former Spanish instructor, I can communicate with Spanish speakers, and I also have resources for those who speak French or Arabic. I provide literature in their languages and can refer them to English classes. I distribute children’s books in English, which many people are excited to have, as they have never owned a book before. Adults often use these books to practice their English. It is the small acts of kindness that make a substantial difference.

Who are the programs or organizations you consider as “partners?”

We operate under Philabundance, a nonprofit food bank in the Philadelphia area that combats hunger and reduces food waste. Philabundance gets funding from federal and state programs, as well as private donations and grants. It has a broad network of food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. Surplus food is collected from grocery stores, restaurants, and farms, then redistributed to those facing food insecurity. Local partners include Manna, Keystone, and Giant Food Stores.

Tell me three ways a community member can help you reach your goals.

Gift cards for Aldi and Giant are great for buying needed items.

Volunteers are always welcome! Each year, we benefit from donations during the Boy Scouts food drive. We appreciate the community’s generosity and need help sorting items, checking expiration dates, and stocking shelves.

To see our current needs, visit www.hatfieldemmanuel.org/food-cupboard for our want list. You can donate specific items or make a cash donation for us to purchase what we need.

How can volunteers help year-round?

The Hatfield Food Cupboard operates year-round. Check our website for our activity schedule. Volunteers can help by assisting clients, weighing items, delivering groceries, or stocking shelves. Even an hour of your time is greatly appreciated, as demand for assistance is rising. Feel free to visit and see our operations in action. If you or someone you know needs supplemental food pantry items, please contact Janet Hague at 215-855-2540 or [email protected].

Have you seen positive growth from the volunteers and/or from people using your services?

As a former Spanish teacher, I have found my training valuable in communicating with our Food Cupboard clients. About a third of those we assist speak Spanish, along with some French speakers from the Congo and Arabic speakers. We offer materials in multiple languages and can refer people to English as a second language classes to help them learn quickly and access more opportunities. Our volunteers have been particularly helpful with language barriers and making those needing help feel safe and welcome.

Do you have a particular “success story” to share?

Since 1981, our Food Cupboard has supported the community facing food insecurity, enabling them to stay in their homes rather than on the streets. Our services rely on the generosity of the community, making Hatfield a kinder place to live. This past year, the need has risen by 30%, and we are helping 80 to 90 families per month. We have had to expand our services. Unfortunately, there are times when our shelves run low, and we often see a line of people needing food, but we do our best to meet this growing demand.

Do you get any push-back? How do you counter it?

Sometimes, people who do not need help can judge those who do. They may question why someone needs assistance if they have a nicer phone or car. Some food donations we receive are expired because donors assume those in need do not care about quality or safety. However, hunger is not a moral failing. We carefully screen those we help to ensure they truly need assistance. Many are in temporary situations, and a little support can make a significant difference in getting them back on track. Without our support, the entire community would be more adversely affected.

How does your organization benefit the community overall (those who do NOT need the service?

Our volunteers find fulfillment in helping others and enjoy the camaraderie of the community. We create a support network by collaborating with local clubs and associations. The Boy Scouts hold their Scouting for Food drives for us, and many individuals organize drives at their workplaces or homes. A.M. Kulp teacher Greg Roberts also runs drives with his students, aiding those in need. These efforts benefit everyone in the community, even if they are not aware of the need.

Submitted by North Penn Advocates, a group of local people who want to educate the North Penn Community on chronic issues of hunger, homelessness, and housing, and advocate for tangible solutions. Questions/comments: Send an email to [email protected]. Visit our North Penn Advocates Facebook page.

 For more information on the food cupboard, go to https://gracelutheranhatfield.org/hatfield-food-cupboard/

This article has been updated to correct errors in the number of families assisted and the website address for food needs.