Emmaus in Haverhill and Bread and Roses in Lawrence will receive bags of food, snacks and beverages from a local gas station chain as part of an effort by convenience store owners.
Energy North Group/Haffner’s, which operates 48 locations in New England, joined the effort to provide supplies to homeless shelters, community groups, hospitals, first responders and nonprofits across Massachusetts. The gift bags contain snacks, energy bars, drinks and other items. Many of the items were to be handed out at a New England Convenience Store and Energy Marketers Association’s annual trade show, which was postponed due to the COVID19 pandemic.
Jonathan Shaer, director of the trade group, said “During this difficult time, convenience stores are essential services where people can buy food, fuel, drinks and other items, while maintaining safe social distancing guidelines. Our hardworking employees are doing their part to keep stores safe, stocked and open, and these bags are a small contribution to help the communities we serve that are in need during this crisis.”
Store operators packed the items into gift bags to be distributed to charitable organizations, first responders and medical facilities around the state. In all, 210 bags are being distributed this week.