At the May 20 meeting, Rochester Rotaries Charities President Tom Townsend presented Neighborhood House with a check for $10,000 to support the Food Pantry and Sustainability Services.Neighborhood House is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping neighbors in need achieve self-sufficiency during times of hardship. The organization serves individuals and families experiencing poverty or those classified as ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed).
While only about 5.5% of the population in the area lives in poverty, significantly below state and national averages, this still represents approximately 8,000 people. Life events such as the death of a loved one, divorce, a medical crisis, or a car breakdown can push families into financial instability. NH’s mission is to empower clients toward long-term sustainability.
Poverty thresholds vary by household size. For example, the federal poverty line is $18,961 for a senior couple over the age of 65, and $31,812 for a family of four.
Neighborhood House Impact in 2024
Neighborhood House made a profound impact in 2024 through its comprehensive services:
- The Food Pantry provided 436,068 meals to 601 households and served 6,183 unhoused individuals with emergency aid and meals. The pantry operates like a grocery market, offering monthly access to food. For efficiency and safety, NH uses a drive-up service where volunteers shop for clients. Home delivery is also available for special cases. On Thursdays, the Pantry distributes fresh food donated by local grocery stores and businesses.
- Sustainability Services provided $105,664 in financial assistance, helped 25 clients secure jobs, and prevented 70 evictions.
- The Clothes Closet distributed 28,276 clothing items to 365 households.
- Community Events: Hosted events that served 1,052 families, benefitting 1,334 children.
- Transportation Services: Offered 463 rides to medical appointments, job interviews, and food pickups. Additionally, nearly 60 bicycles were distributed to adults and children, enabling transportation and recreational opportunities.