The first-ever Belmont gun buy back event held on Saturday, May 31 not only took unwanted guns out of homes around town but also provided funds to help feed local residents in need.

An important part of the buy back – sponsored by the Belmont Police Department in partnership with the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office, Belmont Religious Council and individual Belmont houses of worship – was giving away gift cards to local grocery stores in exchange for the firearms. Donations from residents, local businesses and religious communities raised nearly $5,000 in gift cards.

After the end of the event, the sponsors had $3,117 in surplus gift cards.

Last week, a check for that amount was presented to the Belmont Food Pantry to provide those residents in need of food and sundries who find it hard to make ends meet.

A check for $3,100 provided to the Belmont Food Pantry from the sponsors of the first-ever Belmont Gun Bay Back event. Bottom L-R: Patty Mihelich and Nancy Morrison Top L-R: Dr. David Alper, Jean Dickinson and Chief Richard McLaughlin

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