Catholic Charities of New York began the Lenten season with a significant food distribution event at St. Cecilia Parish on 105^th Street in Spanish Harlem.

St. Cecilia’s has a weekly food pantry that provides meals to the community, but each holiday there is an increase in attendance.

Because of Lent’s dietary restrictions, the needs of those who utilize the pantry change. Volunteers provided canned goods, fresh produce, and frozen fish to comply with Lenten rules for fasting and abstinence.

There was also a major focus on providing nutritious foods for those in attendance because the rising prices on produce and fresh meals has had a significant impact on food availability in East Harlem.

“Lent is about sacrifice. It’s about praying, and it’s about charity and helping others,” said Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, executive director of Catholic Charities of New York.

“This is what we do all the time. Ash Wednesday just makes it a little more special, but this is what the community needs and we strive to provide the foods that are beneficial to those households that we serve,” Lakisha Morris, division director of operations for Catholic Charities of New York.

Approximately 300 households made use of this distribution, with the line going around the block for most of the morning.

St. Cecilia Church celebrated its 150th anniversary.