Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
Date: 12/7/2021
CHICOPEE – With the holidays amplifying the growing challenges of food insecurity, local organizations rallied over Thanksgiving week to support different food initiatives.
The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts made an impact throughout the Pioneer Valley region with their yearly staple Monte’s March, led by 93.9 FM – The River’s Christopher “Monte” Belmonte.
The two-day fundraiser event trekked 43 miles as Belmonte pushed an empty shopping cart from Springfield to Greenfield on Nov. 22 and 23. The charitable endeavor passed through Chicopee on Nov. 22, with Mayor John Vieau greeting Belmonte and volunteers upon their arrival.
“Every year, I’m in awe of the enthusiastic outpouring of support for Monte’s March to support households who struggle to put food on the table. Western Mass. is a special place where people care about food security for everyone,” said Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Executive Director Andrew Morehouse in a statement to Reminder Publishing.
With the help of volunteers, sponsoring organizations and charitable contributions, the Food Bank was able to surpass their $500,000 goal by raising a running total of $529,076. According to the Food Bank’s press release, the funds raised are equivalent to over 5,500 meals per day for an entire year.
Readers interested in donating to the Food Bank’s mission can donate online at https://www.foodbankwma.org/donate/donate-now-2/.
Run by the United Way of Pioneer Valley, Chicopee Cupboard also promoted initiatives to further feed the community. On Nov. 23, the organization gave away four bags of groceries for any new member of the cupboard. Along with donating food, the cupboard also continues to offer personal financial coaching in English and Spanish via phone at 833-308-4748.
Readers interested in donating to Chicopee Cupboard can call 693-0213. The organization accepts monetary donations as well as products like can openers, spices, toiletries and utensils.
The Chicopee Department of Veteran Services contributed by aiding veterans during the holiday season. The office participated in the Turkeys4Veterans Program, distributing 20 turkeys and 20 Table Talk Pies to veterans in need. In combination with other veteran service offices, the program was able to generate 230 turkeys and 250 pies for donations across Western Mass., along with 70 meals for veterans, according to Chicopee Veteran Services Director Stephanie Shaw.
The office also distributed donations of individual meals from the Country Bank. In an interview with Reminder Publishing, Shaw shared the impact that the programs had on veterans across the community. “[The programs] went exceptionally well. It made a big impact here in our city,” said Shaw.