Dedham, MA – Many individuals and families throughout Norfolk County continue to struggle with the rising cost of everyday necessities, including food. As the holiday season approaches, the financial pressure of providing meals, gifts, and household essentials can become even more challenging. In response, Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell is encouraging residents to support the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, which begins Thursday, November 12, 2026, and continues through, Thursday December 17, 2026.
“Many families are finding that their paychecks simply are not stretching as far as they once did,” said Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “From groceries and housing costs to utilities and healthcare expenses, everyday necessities continue to put pressure on household budgets. While Norfolk County remains a great place to live and work, we must recognize that some of our neighbors are struggling. The Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive is an opportunity for all of us to lend a helping hand and ensure that local families have access to food during the holiday season.”
According to the latest data from Project Bread and The Greater Boston Food Bank, 40% of Massachusetts households experienced food insecurity in 2025, representing more than 1.1 million households across the Commonwealth. The increase has been driven largely by the continued high cost of housing, groceries, utilities, and other basic living expenses.
“Our food pantry has seen an exponential growth in the number of clients over the past few years. We have gone from serving an average of approximately 600 households per month before the pandemic to serving upwards of 1900 households per month currently,” said Interfaith Social Services Executive Director Rick Doane.
Recent data from the Greater Boston Food Bank found that households with children continue to be particularly vulnerable to food insecurity. In 2025, 37% of Massachusetts households with children experienced food insecurity, up from 33% in 2024, highlighting the ongoing challenges many families face in putting meals on the table.
“The latest food insecurity numbers are a reminder that hunger can affect anyone,” Register O’Donnell said. “It is not limited to one age group, one community, or one life circumstance. Many people seeking assistance today are working, raising families, caring for loved ones, or living on fixed incomes. These are our friends, neighbors, and fellow residents, and they deserve our support.”
Donations of non-perishable food items may be dropped off at the Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High Street in Dedham, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. A collection bin will be available in the Registry lobby throughout the food drive. Suggested donations include canned vegetables and soups, peanut butter, pasta, rice, cereal, shelf-stable milk, toiletries, and paper products.
“Community donations are important to our work since it helps us minimize our expenses and use our resources for the neighbors who need our assistance,” said Maureen Callahan, Director of Development & Public Relations for Needham Community Council. “It supplements our food supplies, ensuring our shelves are full of food that can be distributed to those facing food insecurity.”
Individuals unable to visit the Registry of Deeds in person can find information about local food pantries and hunger-relief organizations by visiting the Registry’s website at www.norfolkdeeds.org.
“What has always impressed me about the people of Norfolk County is their willingness to help others when help is needed,” concluded Register O’Donnell. “The holiday season is a time of gratitude, but it is also a time for action. By supporting local food pantries and community organizations, we can make sure that fewer families go hungry and that more people experience the kindness and generosity that make our communities strong.”