About RDC Loaves and Fishes

RDC Loaves and Fishes, "The Center of Compassion", is a charitable organizations serving the needs of the poor and working poor in Dover Plains, New York and the surrounding communities. The staff is comprised of one full time paid director and many volunteers.  Please consider making a donation.

We provide services in five complimentary ways:

1. Food Pantry
   
   The food pantry is kept stocked entirely through donations of food and household supplies from local citizens and businesses in the area.  The pantry is located at 7 Market Street in Dover Plains.  The food pantry is also kept stocked through a grant from the Regional Food Bank of North East NY.  If a family or person is in need of food and supplies, they make an appointment to come in and choose the grocery products that best meet their needs.   The food pantry is open daily, Monday through Friday.

   We work cooperatively with and make referrals to all other food pantries in our service area to insure that a family’s or individual’s nutrition needs are being met, as they work toward self sufficiency.

2. Welcome Table

   The Welcome Table is a free weekly nutritional meal prepared by volunteers and served to whoever chooses to attend.  All ingredients for the preparation of the meal are donated by members of the community.  The meal is served in the parish hall of St. Charles Church in Dover Plains, NY.

   Meals are also provided to approximately 45 home bound elderly and infirmed individuals. A group of volunteer drivers deliver the meals and interact with the individuals to assess their safety and well being. If they are found to be in need of assistance, this information is shared with the director and steps are taken to meet those needs.

3. Hope Chest Thrift Store
   

   The Hope Chest Thrift Store is located at 7 Market Street in Dover Plains, gently used clothing, baby/children items and small appliances are donated and sold to help support the services we provide.  Families and individuals who are in need of clothing or household items, but are unable to purchase them, may receive these items at no cost.

4. Emergency Financial Assistance

   Families and individuals who are in need of financial assistance to make rental or mortgage payments, to avoid utility shut-off, for prescription assistance, or other vital needs, may apply for emergency assistance.

5. Needs Assessment

   All volunteer staff are encouraged to provide Needs Assessment for everyone we serve who may be at risk for health, safety, or other issues. We will then address the concerns with the individual and provide direct assistance or referral to appropriate human services agency. All information regarding the individual is treated with strict confidentiality.