‘Month of Giving’ campaign extends from June 1 through August 31
Food insecurity remains a growing problem throughout western Massachusetts, especially with ongoing inflation impacting the cost of food and personal care necessities. For that reason, Freedom Credit Union is extending its annual “Month of Giving” campaign for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts to three months. The community is encouraged to stop by any Freedom branch to donate nonperishable food and personal care items, as well as cash donations, from June 1 through August 31.
“Anyone who buys food or other necessities for themselves or their families knows that the cost of everything has risen significantly over the past three years,” said Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch. “This means that more people than ever are experiencing food insecurity and need relief. Our members, staff and community have always given generously to help support the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, an organization on the front lines of food assistance in our region.”
Suggested donations of nonperishable food and personal care items include:
- Baby formula
- Beans in cans or dried in bags
- Bread mixes
- Canned chicken, fish and meat
- Cereals
- Coffee and tea
- Cooking oils and spices
- Diapers, wipes and toilet paper
- Dried or canned fruit
- Evaporated/powdered milk
- Granola bars and crackers
- Feminine sanitary products
- Instant potatoes
- Pasta and noodles
- Peanut butter and nuts
- Rice and grains
- Sauces
- Shampoo and body wash/soap
- Soups, stews and chili in cans
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Vegetables in cans
“Last summer’s campaign extended over two months, and we collected more than $2,700 plus food and personal care donations,” noted Welch. “We are hoping to increase our total contribution this year, and urge our members, staff and neighbors to donate as generously as possible. Throwing an extra item or two in your grocery cart every week or so can add up to a good-sized donation after three months, without affecting your bottom line too significantly.”
The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts has been feeding neighbors in need and leading the community to end hunger since 1982. It provides food to residents in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire counties through its members, which include independent food pantries, meal sites and shelters.