Continuing the Fight Against Hunger: Freedom Credit Union’s Summer Fundraiser for the Food Bank

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Freedom Credit Union Spearheads Urgent Food Drive for Western Massachusetts

published: august 20,2025 | Last Updated: August 20,2025

Springfield,Massachusetts – With a rapidly approaching deadline,Freedom Credit Union (FCU) is intensifying its summer-long effort to collect vital resources for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Community members are urged to donate non-perishable food items, essential personal care products, or financial contributions at any Freedom Credit Union branch before August 31st.

Rising Demand Amidst Funding Uncertainties

Glenn Welch, President and CEO of Freedom Credit Union, emphasized the ongoing and increasing need for food assistance, even during the traditionally less-demanding summer months. The Food Bank currently supports roughly 124,000 individuals monthly, distributing food through nearly 200 pantries and meal programs across berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties. This support is now more crucial than ever, given recent reductions in federal funding and supplemental nutrition assistance programs, which are placing a greater burden on local families.

The Food Bank Of Western Massachusetts recently faced a significant setback, experiencing a loss of approximately $440,000 in USDA food deliveries due to these federal funding cuts. Simultaneously,the organization has broadened its impact by introducing 12 new food pantry locations this fiscal year,expanding its reach to more individuals and families in need.

Last Year’s Success and This Year’s Goal

Last year’s summer campaign saw Freedom Credit Union members and the broader community donate over $3,350 in funds, alongside nearly 1,435 pounds of food and personal care essentials. This year, the Credit Union is actively rallying support to not only match, but exceed, last year’s extraordinary contributions.

Donations of essential items are greatly appreciated. Highly needed items include baby formula,canned or dried beans,bread mixes,canned meats,cereals,coffee,tea,cooking oil,diapers,feminine hygiene products,granola bars,pasta,peanut butter,rice,and basic toiletries like shampoo and soap.

Did you know? According to Feeding America, over 34 million people in the united States, including nearly 9 million children, are food insecure. Learn more about national hunger statistics.

The Food Bank’s Legacy of Service

for over four decades, as its founding in 1982, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts has been a cornerstone in the fight against hunger. The organization works diligently to provide sustenance to neighbors in need and galvanize community efforts to eradicate hunger. It partners with a network of independent food pantries, meal sites, and shelters to deliver crucial aid to residents throughout the region.

Pro Tip: Consider organizing a food drive with your neighbors, workplace, or community group to maximize your impact. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference.

Year	Funds Raised	Food & Care Items (lbs)
2024	$3,350+	1,435+
2025 (Goal)	$3,350+	1,435+

Understanding Food Insecurity

Food insecurity is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences. It’s not simply about a lack of food; it affects health, education, and economic possibility. Factors contributing to food insecurity include poverty, unemployment, systemic inequality, and unexpected crises like natural disasters or economic downturns. Supporting organizations like the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts is a direct investment in the well-being of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Food Drive

What types of food items are most needed? Non-perishable items like canned goods,pasta,rice,and cereal are always in high demand.

Can I donate personal care items? Yes, personal care products such as diapers, soap, and toothpaste are also greatly appreciated.

Where can I drop off donations? Donations can be made at any Freedom Credit Union branch.

What does the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts do? The Food Bank distributes food to nearly 200 food pantries and meal sites across Western Massachusetts.

How can I help if I can’t donate food or money? You can volunteer your time at the Food Bank or organize a food drive in your community.

What impact does federal funding have on the Food Bank? Reductions in federal funding directly impact the amount of food the Food Bank can acquire and distribute.

What do you think about Freedom Credit Union’s efforts to combat hunger? How can communities best support food banks during times of increasing need?

Share this crucial data with your friends and family, and let’s work together to ensure that everyone in Western Massachusetts has access to nutritious food.

What percentage of funds raised directly supports the Food Bank’s operational costs?

Understanding Food Insecurity in Our Community

Food insecurity, a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life, remains a notable challenge. Recent data indicates a rise in families relying on food banks, even as economies recover. This isn’t just about lacking food; it impacts health, education, and overall community well-being. Freedom Credit Union recognizes this critical need and is actively working to address it through our annual summer fundraiser benefiting the local Food Bank. Supporting the food bank is a direct way to combat hunger relief in our area.

The Impact of the Summer Fundraiser

This year’s fundraiser,running from July 1st to august 31st,aims to surpass last year’s donation of $15,000. Every dollar donated translates directly into meals for individuals and families facing food assistance needs.

Here’s how your contribution makes a difference:

$10 can provide 40 meals.

$25 can feed a family for a day.

$50 can stock a pantry with essential items.

$100 can support the Food Bank’s mobile pantry program, reaching underserved communities.

The funds raised are crucial for the Food Bank to maintain its operations, including purchasing food, covering transportation costs, and supporting vital programs like children’s summer meal programs. This initiative directly addresses childhood hunger and ensures kids have access to nutritious meals even when school is out.

Ways to Participate & Donate

Freedom Credit Union offers multiple convenient ways to contribute to the summer food drive:

1. In-Branch Donations: Visit any of our branch locations and donate cash or check directly to the fundraiser.
2. Online Giving: Donate securely through our website: [Insert Freedom Credit Union Website Link Here]. Online donations are processed quickly and efficiently.
3. Mobile Banking: Utilize our mobile banking app to make a direct donation to the Food Bank fund.
4. Round-Up Program: Opt-in to our “Round-Up” program, where your debit card purchases are rounded up to the nearest dollar, with the difference donated to the food Bank.
5. Volunteer Opportunities: Beyond financial contributions, consider volunteering your time at the Food Bank.Opportunities include sorting food, packing boxes, and assisting with distribution. Contact the Food Bank directly to learn more: [Insert Food Bank Contact Facts Here].

The Food Bank’s essential Programs

The local Food Bank provides a thorough range of services beyond emergency food distribution. These programs are vital for long-term food security:

Emergency Food Pantry: Provides immediate food assistance to individuals and families in crisis.

Mobile Pantry: Delivers food directly to underserved communities, overcoming transportation barriers.

Senior Food box Program: Offers nutritious food packages to low-income seniors.

Children’s Backpack Program: Provides weekend meals for children at risk of hunger.

Cooking Matters Classes: Teaches individuals and families how to prepare healthy, affordable meals. These classes promote nutritional education and empower individuals to make informed food choices.

The Growing Need for Food Assistance

The demand for food assistance has been steadily increasing due to factors like rising inflation, unemployment, and housing costs. Many families who were previously self-sufficient are now finding themselves needing help to put food on the table.This highlights the importance of ongoing support for organizations like the Food Bank. Understanding the root causes of poverty and hunger is crucial for developing effective solutions.

Freedom Credit Union’s Commitment to Community support

Freedom credit union has a long-standing commitment to supporting the communities we serve. Our partnership with the Food Bank is a cornerstone of our community outreach efforts. We believe that everyone deserves access to nutritious food, and we are dedicated to working alongside our members and partners to make that a reality.This commitment extends beyond this fundraiser to include ongoing community investment initiatives.

Real-World Impact: A Local Family’s Story (With permission)

(Note: This section requires a verified, approved story from the Food Bank. Replace the bracketed information with a genuine account.)

[insert a brief, anonymized story of a local family who benefited from the Food Bank’s services. Focus on the positive impact the assistance had on their lives. Ensure you have explicit permission from the family and the Food Bank to share their story.] This illustrates the tangible impact of hunger solutions and the importance of continued support.

Resources for Those Seeking Food Assistance

If you or someone you know is struggling with food insecurity, here are some valuable resources:

Local Food Bank: [Insert food Bank Website and Contact information]

Feeding America: https://www.feedingamerica.org/

211 Helpline: Dial 211 to connect with local health and human service programs.

* SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap – Learn about eligibility