Target Turns Fire into Aid for Locals in Need

 A fire at Enfield Square Mall's Target store on Jan. 27 led to a loss of merchandise for the retailer — a loss quickly turned into a gain for those in need.

Exposure to smoke and water during the effort to extinguish Monday night's fire rendered a substantial amount of merchandise unfit for sale, but Target employee Gail Soverino recognized the items could still be used.

As a result, Foodshare has 15 pallets of new donations Wednesday, including baby diapers, clothing, detergent and toilet paper.

"Soverino understands that the need in the community goes far beyond just food, and so she reached out to Foodshare first thing Tuesday morning," Foodshare Retail Pick-Up Coordinator Gaye Sgamboti said.

Target is an active supporter of Foodshare, as the retailer participates in the non-profit's volunteer retail pick-up program each Monday through Friday by providing donations to local pantries and community kitchens.

The items donated after Monday's fire, however, will provide a little extra help for locals who may otherwise go without.

"These are all expensive items that many of our hungry neighbors struggle to afford," said Gloria McAdam, Foodshare President and CEO. "Thanks to Target's generous donation, many more families will be able to use that money to instead purchase much-needed food."