An East Bay area food pantry recently received a large donation from Shaw’s and Star Market Nourishing Neighbors Community Relief Initiative.

Tap-In, a non-profit that helps people in need in East Providence, Barrington, Warren and Bristol, received $15,400 from the relief initiative. Officials from the Shaw’s Supermarket in Barrington stopped by Tap-In headquarters recently to deliver the donation. 

The money will help Tap-In sustain its programs that address food insecurity and economic hardship in the East Bay. Last year, Tap-In served a total of 5,446 households, an average of 454 visits each month. It also distributed 175,990 pounds of food (88 tons), an average of more than 34 pounds per household food visit.  

“Karen Medeiros, the Barrington Shaw’s Store Director, and her associates have provided constant leadership and support helping Tap-In achieve its mission over the years,” stated a release from the local non-profit. “Tap-In is grateful for Shaw’s help and involvement with its 100 percent volunteer organization.”   

The money was raised by Shaw’s designating Tap-In as the recipient of donations received during the program which ran from Nov. 14, 2022 through Dec. 31, 2022.  

At Barrington Shaw’s checkout associates wrung a bell each time a customer would donate. Karen Makel was honored for being the top bell ringer. 

Barrington Shaw’s was the top fund-raiser in this event and the associates were treated to a celebration lunch provided by corporate Shaw’s. 

The Shaw’s and Star Market’s Holiday fundraiser was established to help local community organizations with hunger prevention programs. The donations are used to provide food to children, seniors, and others in need of assistance.  

“We are grateful for our customers and associates who continue to help fight hunger in our local communities,” said Shaw’s and Star Market President Rob Backus. “We are also proud to partner with local hunger relief organizations like Tap-In who are dedicated to getting food into the hands of our neighbors in need.”