Showing posts with label donations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label donations. Show all posts

Monday, March 18, 2024

Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell recently delivered donations of food to the Franklin Food Pantry. The contributions came from the Registry staff, title examiners, and the public, who participated in the Registry's Annual Holiday Food Drive which was held from November 14th to December 14th.

 

"On behalf of the many people who contributed to the Registry's food drive, it is my pleasure to deliver these items to the Franklin Food Pantry," stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. "I am thankful that so many Norfolk County residents, including our employees and title examiners, took the opportunity to donate and to help those with hardships during the holiday season."

 

Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry
Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry

The Registry collected more than 280 pounds of food during the drive, including items such as boxes of spaghetti, jars of sauce, canned soups, and fruits.

"Community donations are a big help and give us a good deal of variety that we wouldn't otherwise have," said Anne McGillis, Operations Director for the Franklin Food Pantry.

Last year, the Franklin Food Pantry helped more than 1,324 individuals in more than 650 households. Of those who received food assistance, more than one in four were children, and 36% were 65 or older.

 

"The food pantries throughout Norfolk County provide a valuable and much-needed resource for residents facing both long-term and temporary hardships, including children, families, and individuals, and I am grateful to be able to help in this small way," said Register O'Donnell.

 

According to Project Bread, household food insecurity in Massachusetts has been fluctuating between 20 and 26%. Many Norfolk County food pantries have seen a significant increase in demand in the last year. ​

"It is a great feeling to be able to help the community and to know that other members of the community understand that there is a need for this," said McGillis.

Franklin residents in need of assistance can register for services, schedule shopping appointments, or schedule home delivery by contacting the Franklin Food Pantry Client Services Coordinator at 508-528-3115.

 

Register O'Donnell concluded, "Hunger does not stop after the holidays it is a persistent issue affecting many of our neighbors. I encourage residents to consider dropping off food supplies at their local pantry. Pantries are requesting canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products. Dropping off a food donation at a local pantry can make a world of difference in helping a family in need."

To see a list of Norfolk County food pantries, visit the Registry of Deeds website: https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/support/FAQs/where-are-the-norfolk-county-food-pantry-locations-142. Donations are needed all year long.

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Friday, December 29, 2023

Franklin Food Pantry Distributes Record Number of Holiday Meal Kits

The Franklin Food Pantry, which provides supplemental food assistance and programs in Franklin, Massachusetts, distributed 275 holiday meal kits to coincide with the Thanksgiving holiday, and 333 holiday meal kits for December holiday celebrations. 

Meal kits included canned goods and vegetables, a gift card to purchase a protein of choice at a local supermarket, and holiday inspired desserts. The meal kits were distributed curbside by volunteers and staff. Many of the meal kit items, including the reusable shopping bags, were donated by community groups, local business partners, and supporters of The Pantry. 

This year’s demand for holiday meal kits echoes the overall increase for food and services at The Pantry. Visits to The Pantry from September to December 2023 increased 42 percent vs. the same period last year. The Pantry attributes the growing need to continued high cost of food and housing, the end of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Emergency Allotments, and The Pantry’s increased visibility on Rt. 140 in Franklin.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to provide hunger relief to our neighbors in need especially during the holiday season, but the growing need underscores that there is more work to be done,” said Tina Powderly, Executive Director, of the Franklin Food Pantry. “Fighting hunger is an ongoing battle and with the community’s support we can get food into the hand of those who are experiencing food insecurity throughout the year.”

Individuals, community groups, and businesses can get involved by hosting a food or fund drive, making a tax-deductible donation, or volunteering.  More opportunities to get involved are listed on The Pantry’s website. 

For more information on the Franklin Food Pantry, or if you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please call 508-528-3115 or email info@franklinfoodpantry.org.

About the Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.
The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers supplemental food assistance, household necessities, and resource referral programs to more than 1,300 individuals per year. The Pantry relies on donations and grants to purchase items and pay for daily operations, and partnerships with The Greater Boston Food Bank, Lovin’ Spoonfuls, and local grocery stores to achieve greater buying power and lower costs. 
Programs include In-person Shopping, Curbside Pick-up, Emergency Food Bags, Mobile Pantries, Home Delivery, Kids’ Snack Bags, Weekend Backpacks, Holiday Meal Kits, Community Gardens, and the Franklin Farmers Market. The Pantry is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in good standing in Massachusetts, recognized by Charity Navigator as a Four- Star Charity, and awarded GuideStar’s Platinum Transparency ranking. The Pantry is located at 341 W. Central St. in Franklin, MA on Route 140. Please visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org for more information.

 

Franklin Food Pantry Distributes Record Number of Holiday Meal Kits
Franklin Food Pantry Distributes Record Number of Holiday Meal Kits

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Please consider a year end contribution to the Franklin Food Pantry

The Food Elves Campaign, which runs through mid-December, is usually The Pantry’s biggest fundraiser of the year, but we’re only at a little over 60% of our goal. 
Please consider making a donation before the end of the year and help us alleviate food insecurity in the Franklin Community. No donation is too small (or too big!)

Visit The Pantry gift page for other ways to contribute financially ->  https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/give-gifts/

Consider a year end contribution to the Franklin Food Pantry
Consider a year end contribution to the Franklin Food Pantry

Disclosure: I am a contributor to the building campaign and a member of two subcommittees (Governance & Communications). The Food Pantry has long been among my top 3 financial contribution recipients.

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Still time to support the Franklin Food Pantry Food Elves campaign

Didn't receive a purple envelope from the Food Elves? 
You can still donate and support us online. 

 

Link to contribute here ->   http://weblink.donorperfect.com/FranklinFoodPantry/FranklinFoodElves2023
Still time to support the Franklin Food Pantry Food Elves campaign
Still time to support the Franklin Food Pantry Food Elves campaign




Sunday, November 19, 2023

Franklin Food Pantry Invites Community Support on #GivingTuesday

Demand for Food Assistance and Programs Continues to Increase as Winter Months Approach

The Franklin Food Pantry, which provides supplemental food assistance and programs in Franklin, is encouraging the community to support The Pantry through acts of giving and service on #GivingTuesday. The annual event occurs the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and inspires people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.  

In recent months, The Pantry has experienced a sharp increase in demand for food and services including weekend backpack meals for school children, holiday meal kits, and health and wellness items. By supporting The Pantry on #GivingTuesday, Franklin residents can make a lasting, positive impact in their immediate community.  

Franklin Food Pantry Invites Community Support on #GivingTuesday
Franklin Food Pantry Invites Community Support on #GivingTuesday
#GivingTuesday is an opportunity for everyone to reflect on their blessings, and pass that gratitude on to others in need,” said Tina Powderly, Executive Vice President, of Franklin Food Pantry. “The holiday season can be a time of tremendous stress for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. By coming together, we can provide hunger relief that lasts throughout the new year.”

How to support the Franklin Food Pantry on #GivingTuesday:
  • Donate—Make a monetary donation and help provide food and goods to the more than 1,300 individuals and families who rely on The Pantry each year. In Norfolk County, the average cost for a meal is about $5. A donation of $20 helps a family of four start their day with breakfast, eat lunch at work or school, or provide a nutritious dinner at night. Recurring monthly donations to help The Pantry budget for everyday expenses are also available. Click HERE to donate
  • Show Support—Share support for the Franklin Food Pantry on social media channels. Share The Pantry’s posts or create original content that links to The Pantry website or #GivingTuesday donation page. Be sure to use #GivingTuesday.  
  • Volunteer—The Franklin Food Pantry has flexible volunteer options to meet almost everyone's desire to help. To volunteer, complete the online application and a volunteer coordinator will be in contact. Please note that availability for new Pantry volunteers will begin after the holiday season. For more information, click HERE.
  • Organize a Food or Fund Drive—Individuals, corporations, schools, churches, community groups, and other organizations can coordinate a food and fund drive using The Pantry’s online toolkit. Collected food and funds will help The Pantry provide assistance throughout the season and into the new year. 
#GivingTuesday takes place on November 28, 2023. To add a #GivingTuesday reminder to an online calendar, please click HERE. For more information or to learn about the Franklin Food Pantry, visit www.franklinfoopantry.org.

About the Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.
The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers supplemental food assistance and household necessities to more than 1,300 individuals per year. The Franklin Food Pantry is not funded by the Town of Franklin. The Pantry partners with several organizations including the Greater Boston Food Bank to achieve greater buying power and lower costs. 
Donations and grants fund food purchases, keep lights on, and put gas in the Pantry truck. Programs include home delivery, a weekend backpack program for Franklin school children, mobile pantries, emergency food bags, and holiday meal packages. The Pantry is located at 341 W. Central St. in Franklin, Massachusetts on Route 140. Visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org for more information.


Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Give blood, help a great cause

Please call us at (508) 384-0033 to learn more about this COVID-19 research study and to enroll. 
We, at MRN Diagnostics, would like you to be a part of our journey in creating the next generation of diagnostic tests. Without individual contributors like you, these critical diagnostics tests will not be available to patients seeking rapid and accurate diagnoses. 
For more information on how you can take part, please contact us at (508) 384-0033 or email collections@mrndx.com

Give blood, help a great cause
Give blood, help a great cause

For additional info, listen to the my interview and discussion with MRN Diagnostics CEO Dr. Greg Chiklis. Our discussion was conducted on site at the MRN facility in the Forge Park Industrial Park.  

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Holiday Hand Soap Drive launched by the Franklin Food Pantry

The Franklin Food Pantry is collecting donations of hand soap for the 1,300 individuals who rely on The Pantry each year. 

According to the CDC, germs from unwashed hands can be transferred to other objects, like handrails, tabletops, or toys, and then transferred to another person's hands. Removing germs through handwashing therefore helps prevent diarrhea and respiratory infections and may even help prevent skin and eye infections. 

Donations can be brought to the Franklin Food Pantry, 341 West Central Street Franklin, Massachusetts, and placed in the large purple bin ("The Purple People Feeder") on The Pantry’s loading dock. Donations must be unused, unopened, and undamaged.  

Monetary donations can also be made online at: https://bit.ly/45LjrS5

For more information, contact Marsha Tait at 508-528-3115 or donations@franklinfoodpantry.org.

Holiday Hand Soap Drive launched by the Franklin Food Pantry
Holiday Hand Soap Drive launched by the Franklin Food Pantry

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Take part in a MRN Clinical Trial to build the repository & earn some compensation (audio)

FM #1073 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1073 in the series. 


This shares my interview and discussion with MRN Diagnostics CEO Dr. Greg Chiklis. Our discussion was conducted on site at the MRN facility in the Forge Park Industrial Park.


  • What is MRN’s mission? The role of the MRN’s Clinical Research Division 

  • About the clinical research studies that are currently available (Ageros, Leidos)

    • Studies are handled by an experienced team of clinical coordinators who follow stringent protocols to ensure the safety of our donors and the integrity of our studies

    • Donors will receive compensation for each study that they participate in

  • Create the Biorepository for future studies

  • How we can get involved in one or more of these clinical collections

    • For more information on how you can take part, please contact us at (508) 384-0033 or email collections@mrndx.com


The recording runs about 36 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Dr. Greg Chiklis. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1073-mrn-diagnostics-dr-greg-chiklis-10-05-23



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Home page for MRD -> https://www.mrndx.com/ 


Clinical Collections Flyer -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PYwt2IFAnf6TYSQKQLyAWQZZDWPw87GL/view?usp=drive_link


How to donate to one of the collections -> https://www.mrndx.com/donor-home 


Clinical Compensation summary -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GBAv27U-0aGb7K5jAtnc2xchHBVHs8EU/view?usp=drive_link


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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  


This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

 

How can you help?

  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

  • If you don't like something here, please let me know


Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.


For additional information, please visit franklin.news/ or Franklinmatters.org/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com


The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.


I hope you enjoy!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"




Saturday, September 30, 2023

#LOVEfranklin // Emergency Shelter Humanitarian Aid Update & Call to Action

To those who #LOVEfranklin:

Nearly two years ago you signed onto a "A Call to Our Community," written by the Franklin Interfaith Council (FIC) in response to several incidences including targeted hate speech and vandalism against members of the LGBTQIA+ community, racial slurs at public events, and anti-Semitic graffiti. The FIC issued a call to #LOVEfranklin. Part of that call was an expressed commitment of each signer to "create a beloved community where all persons regardless of their gender, identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnic background, stature, ability, creed or faith can find a home."

As most of you are aware, the State of Massachusetts has opened some 80 emergency shelters across the state, including in Franklin, to help support "homeless families in crisis."  You can find a copy of the town press release here. Currently the emergency shelter in Franklin is housing some 120 people. The shelter is expected to fill over the next few weeks to a capacity of 400-500 people. Over half the people currently placed in Franklin are native English speakers. While the state is providing most of the basic needs for these individuals and getting them setup with social services, many needs remain unmet as people try to make a new home for their family.

This is where you come in. The Franklin Interfaith Council will be regularly communicating the needs of the families placed in the emergency shelter in Franklin, providing local drop-off points for you to make donations, and distributing the donations at the shelter. In addition to tangible donations like food, clothing, and hygiene products, we will also help communicate volunteer opportunities. There are many ways you can help.  See the attached flyer for a listing of current needs and volunteer opportunities. We will update and distribute this flyer regularly.

If you know of people who would like to be added to this distribution list, please have them email info@franklininterfaith.org. If you would like to be removed from this distribution list, please respond to this email and let me know.

Thank you for your on-going commitment to #LOVEfranklin and your efforts to help others make a home and fall in love with Franklin too!

Peace.
Jacob

 

><O><O><O><O><O><O><O><

Rev. Dr. Jacob W. Juncker

Pastor, Franklin United Methodist Church

President, Franklin Interfaith Council

><O><O><O><O><O><O><O><

Flyer -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DI6Xtcy2Q-tcaG6LYsfeCpcJypqbDuze/view?usp=drive_link

#LOVEfranklin // Emergency Shelter Humanitarian Aid Update & Call to Action
#LOVEfranklin // Emergency Shelter Humanitarian Aid Update & Call to Action


Additional Links:

Sunday, September 24, 2023

The donation bin at the Franklin Food Pantry has a name -> "Purple People Feeder"

Six-year-old twins Addison and Gracelyn, winners of the donation bin naming contest, and their little sister visited with Tina Powderly, Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry, to check out the "Purple People Feeder."  
Come visit the Purple People Feeder on The Pantry's loading dock and be sure to bring a non-perishable donation to feed our neighbors.  
For a complete tour of the pantry, sign up online at: https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/new-building/

https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0WvTndYymh59V9mStKXUZXUsvHsgmw5ydzSAreUs1bwvyRgasSw4qoxVmT3hhXm8yl&id=100064488767698&mibextid=Nif5oz

Six-year-old twins Addison and Gracelyn, winners of the donation bin naming contest, and their little sister visited with Tina Powderly, Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry
Six-year-old twins Addison and Gracelyn, winners of the donation bin naming contest, and their little sister visited with Tina Powderly, Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry

Thursday, September 7, 2023

Franklin Food Pantry to Take Part in Hunger Action Month®

September is Hunger Action Month®, and the Franklin Food Pantry is joining Feeding America and a nationwide network of food pantries to raise awareness and inspire the public to act on behalf of people experiencing hunger. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, more than 34 million people, including 9 million children, in the United States are food insecure. 

The Town of Franklin and the surrounding community are not immune to food insecurity with The Pantry providing more than 1,300 individuals with supplemental food assistance and services. As a private, non- profit organization, The Pantry relies on the generosity of donors and volunteers, offering community groups and individuals many opportunities to become involved in the fight against hunger.

“Over the past two years, the Franklin Food Pantry has experienced a sharp increase in the need for supplemental food assistance,” said Tina Powderly, Executive Director, Franklin Food Pantry. “Hunger Action Month calls on our community to join the fight on hunger, restock our shelves, and make sure everyone in our community has access to nutritious food and services.”

Individuals and groups can take action against hunger by participating in the following:
Organize a food or fund drive
Donate funds, food, or other pantry needs to the Franklin Food Pantry
Learn about the impact hunger has on Franklin and Norfolk County
Volunteer at the Franklin Food Pantry
Write to local elected officials and urge them to fight hunger
Wear orange on Hunger Action Day (Friday, September 23, 2023) to spread awareness and show commitment toward ending hunger
Join the conversation by posting photos or stories to social media with #HungerActionMonth For more information on Hunger Action Month visit HungerActionMonth.org.

About the Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.
The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers supplemental food assistance and household necessities to more than 1,300 individuals per year. The Franklin Food Pantry is not funded by the Town of Franklin. We are grateful for our many partnerships, including that with the Greater Boston Food Bank, that allow us to achieve greater buying power and lower our costs. Donations and grants fund our food purchases, keep our lights on, and put gas in our food truck. 
Programs include home delivery, a weekend backpack program for Franklin school children in need, mobile pantries, emergency food bags, and holiday meal packages. The Pantry is located at 341 W. Central St. in Franklin, Massachusetts on Route 140. Visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org for more information.
September is Hunger Action Month
September is Hunger Action Month

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Franklin Food Pantry serves record number of our neighbors in a single day

Via the Franklin Food Pantry 

"Yesterday (Tuesday, 8/22/23) we served a RECORD NUMBER of 112 neighbors between client appointments, emergency bags, and curbside distribution. None of this would have been possible without our new, larger space where we can accommodate more clients and have the capacity to store more food. 
We are asking you to join us in our efforts! 
We have reached 56% of our $3.5 million campaign goal to raise funds for the purchase and renovation of our building, enhance our client programs and services, and create a rainy-day fund for future building expenses. 
We are deeply grateful for your support, and cannot help our neighbors in need without you!"
Find the Instagram reel here -> https://www.instagram.com/reel/CwS20MFrGfy/

Follow the link to donate and sign up for a tour of the new building ->  https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/new-building/

Recent podcasts about the Franklin Food Pantry. Their work servicing our neighbors is enhanced by the new facility. 


Franklin Food Pantry serves record number of our neighbors in a single day
Franklin Food Pantry serves record number of our neighbors in a single day

Thursday, August 17, 2023

This Franklin Food Pantry conversation covers how community involvement makes this a success (audio)

FM #1039 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1039 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Suzanne Gendreau, Franklin Food Pantry board member and Building Campaign Committee Chair along with Donna O’Neill, Food Pantry volunteer and ambassador extraordinaire. We had our conversation in the new location of the Franklin Food Pantry at Edwin’s. 


We talk about the happy news that the Food Pantry has their own home, finally. While they are appreciative of the space Rockland Trust has let them use for many years, their needs had outgrown the space. 


We spend much of the time sharing stories about the community involvement that is what makes the Food Pantry a successful operation assisting our neighbors.


Disclosure: during the conversation you will hear about my background with the Food Pantry and that I have committed to this capital campaign.


The recording runs about 32 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Suzanne and Donna. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1039-franklin-food-pantry-building-campaign-3-07-24-23



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The Franklin Food Pantry is here for you. If you need us, we are here with not only food, but useful programs and resources for individuals, seniors and families struggling with food insecurity. If you can support us, we thank you - visit franklinfoodpantry.org to explore volunteering, donating funds, donating food, or supporting our Capital Campaign to keep the lights on and the programs, from food elves to weekend backpack stuffing. It truly takes a village to keep our food pantry running and supporting the increasing demand, supporting our Franklin neighbors.


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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm). 


This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

 

How can you help?

  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

  • If you don't like something here, please let me know


Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

 

For additional information, please visit www.franklin.news or www.Franklinmatters.org/ 


If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com


The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.


I hope you enjoy!

------------------


You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"