The Perinton Food Shelf is an emergency food relief organization that serves the 14450 area code (Fairport and Perinton). The Perinton Food Shelf was organized in late 1980 by the Perinton Lay Clergy Council, a group of lay representatives from twelve congregations in the Perinton area. Operations began in 1981 out of the First Baptist Church. The Food Shelf Board was organized to oversee the operation in 1982; the Food Shelf has since moved to Fairport village.
The Perinton Food Shelf originally served surrounding towns such as Pittsford, East Rochester, and Penfield as well as the Fairport/Perinton area. Due to the increased need for emergency food in these areas, other towns have started their own Food Shelves. Although there are several Food Shelves supplying emergency food to these areas, the Perinton Food Shelf has seen no decrease in need; in fact, the need is greater now than ever. In 1998, 818 families received supplemental food from the Shelf, and this year the number is expected to rise.
There are several reasons why Perinton residents need this emergency food service. In many cases, the main breadwinner of the house is between jobs, has recently lost a high-powered job, or has abandoned the family. Other consumers of the service are new to the area and have not found work or are on a limited income and need some extra help.
The Perinton Food Shelf exists entirely on donated food and cash; support comes from area churches, schools, organizations, and community-minded individuals. Further, 25% of the annual Walk for Hunger (CROP Walk) contributions remain in the local community for use by the Food Shelf. Since the Shelf is not funded by any grant moneys, the office is staffed completely by volunteers who gather, organize, and distribute the food.
To contact the Perinton Food Shelf, call 425-7410 or write to Perinton Food Shelf, 110 Packet Landing, Fairport, NY 14450.