Wilmington - Catholic Charities, Inc. of the Diocese of Wilmington, again asks for all its communities to “Stock the Pantry” by contributing nonperishable food goods in order for the agency to meet the unprecedented need for food assistance during the pandemic. The COVID-19-related shelter in place and state of emergency orders have helped slow the spread of the virus but have contributed to high unemployment.  The number of people who have experienced job loss or a reduction in hours has dramatically increased requests for food assistance, some months have been as high as six times previous years requests.  Catholic Charities is proud to say that to date, we have been able to meet this great need. Your support for Stock the Pantry will enable us to continue to meet the need. During COVID-19, Catholic Charities Food Assistance Program is safely distributing food in Wilmington, from our Thrift Center on East 23^rd Street. Donors can drop off food, personal hygiene items, cleaning supplies and grocery store gift cards at all Catholic Charities locations during normal business hours. Other locations with food assistance programs are Bayard House in Wilmington, the Kent County Catholic Charities office in Dover, Casa San Francisco in Milton, and at Seton Center in Princess Anne, Maryland.  Individuals interested in receiving food assistance must apply for program membership on Catholic Charities website, cdow.org/charities, or by contacting the location closest to them: in New Castle County at 302-655-9624, in Kent County at 302-674-1600, in Sussex County at 302-684-8694 or at  Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland at 410-651-9608. Currently, Catholic Charities serves over 3,000 households each year through its food cooperatives and emergency food pantries. In addition to nonperishable food and grocery store gift cards, Catholic Charities is grateful for monetary donations in order to purchase additional food to fill bags for the food assistance programs. To make a monetary donation, visit Catholic Charities website, cdow.org/charities. Designate your gift to food assistance.