Why He Gives: Supporting WHEAT and Feeding Families in Our Community

For years, Mark had heard about WHEAT and supported the organization through occasional donations. But it wasn’t until his wife, Celia, became deeply involved that the true scope of need in West Haven became real to him.

“When Celia told me about the poverty level in West Haven—especially the number of children living below the poverty line—I couldn’t wrap my head around it,” he says. “I believe it, but it’s still hard to believe.”

Like many families, Mark and his wife had long been generous supporters of their alma maters, including Hopkins, Georgetown, and Hamilton College. Over time, though, their focus began to shift.

“We started to feel like those institutions are doing okay,” Mark explains. “They’re important, and we still give. But when you think about kids who are hungry right now, that changes your perspective. Feeding people—feeding kids—those are the basics.”

Seeing the Need Firsthand

Mark’s connection to WHEAT deepened the first time he visited the pantry.

“I had no idea how big the operation was—the size, the scope, the amount of work that goes into it,” he says. “When you see the shelves, when you hear what’s running low, it really hits you. You think, ‘How can I help?’”

That firsthand experience reinforced something Mark believes strongly: when donors see the work in action, the impact becomes real.

“When people come in and see how much is being done—and how much is still needed—it changes everything.”

What Motivates His Giving

Mark describes himself as “very blessed,” and he doesn’t take that lightly.

“It’s hard to think about kids not eating,” he says. “When you realize you have the resources to help, you feel a responsibility to try.”

That sense of responsibility extends beyond financial support. Mark believes connection, communication, and transparency matter.

“Updates make a difference,” he says. “Let people know what’s happening, what’s been cut, what’s needed—whether it’s funding or something as simple as peanut butter.”

Looking Toward the Future

Mark sees tremendous opportunity for WHEAT to grow its impact through community partnerships, fresh energy, and outreach.

“There are so many people who don’t even realize WHEAT exists, or who think it only serves West Haven,” he notes. “When people understand that WHEAT helps families across Connecticut, that’s powerful.”

He also believes inviting donors to see WHEAT in action—during a distribution day—can be transformational.

“When you see the people, the different languages, the cultures, the line of families—it really shows what a big deal this is.”

A Community Worth Investing In

West Haven, Mark says, is a true melting pot—home to families from all over the world, many facing significant hardship.

“There’s a lot of poverty, but there’s also determination,” he says. “You see it every day.”

For Mark, supporting WHEAT is about addressing immediate needs with compassion and purpose.

“You’re feeding people,” he says simply. “And that matters.”