Local Restaurant, Avon Food Pantry Team Up For Major Fundraiser

AVON, CT — The Avon Food Pantry will host a fundraising event Thursday, May 14, at Puerto Vallarta Restaurant in Avon to support the organization’s food assistance efforts.

The event will take place at the restaurant, located at 15 West Avon Road.

Organizers said diners who mention they are supporting the Avon Food Pantry will help generate a donation equal to 20% of their meal purchase.

The fundraiser applies to lunch, dinner, and takeout orders.

Organizers also said nonperishable food donations and financial contributions will be accepted.

The Avon Food Pantry, located in the basement of Father Bennett Hall at St. Ann Church on Arch Road, operates entirely through volunteers and community support.

The pantry was founded by the late Avon Police Chief Jim Martino and his wife, Barbara, who originally ran the operation out of their home before it moved to St. Ann Church in the 1960s.

According to organizers, the pantry receives some financial support from the Town of Avon Social Services Department, along with grants, donations, and food contributions from local grocery stores and restaurants. St. Ann Church provides space and utilities for the pantry.

Volunteers stock shelves on Monday mornings and distribute food to clients on Tuesday mornings.

Organizers encouraged residents to donate nonperishable foods and personal care items, including canned soup, pasta, cereal, toilet paper, toothpaste, and laundry detergent. Gift cards for grocery stores are also accepted to help purchase fresh produce, meat, and other perishable items.

The pantry said community support helps provide food assistance to local residents in need throughout the year.

For information on donating to the Avon Food Pantry, click on this link.