In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the 21st annual Supper for Six food drive in Greenfield has once again successfully gathered substantial donations to support families facing food insecurity. This initiative, organized by Women’s Way, an affinity group of the United Way of the Franklin & Hampshire Region, collected 268 bags of nonperishable food and over $3,000 in monetary contributions. The event, held during the February school break, aimed to alleviate financial pressures on families who rely on school meals for their children. The collected items were distributed through various local organizations to ensure that those in need received essential supplies.

A Drive-Thru Event with Heart: Supporting Families in Need

In the crisp, early spring air of western Massachusetts, volunteers from diverse backgrounds united at the United Way’s offices on Davis Street in Greenfield. Last week, this vibrant community effort saw families, friends, and coworkers converge to contribute generously. Donors arrived in vehicles loaded with nonperishable foods, which were swiftly unloaded by enthusiastic volunteers. Key figures such as Elsa Kieffer of the United Way, Jess Loebel of Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Geoff Naunheim, executive director of the United Way, played pivotal roles in coordinating the drive. Mary Rawls from the Greenfield Cooperative Bank also joined the cause, reinforcing the widespread support from local businesses.

The Supper for Six food drive has become an integral part of the community’s efforts to combat food insecurity. Over the years, it has garnered consistent participation from dedicated donors like Maeve Shaughnessy, a resident of Turners Falls, who has been involved for a decade. Schools such as The Bement School in Deerfield have also actively participated, encouraging students to bring back bags filled with nonperishable items. Heather Holohan-Guarnieri, a parent at Bement, highlighted the school’s role in fostering community involvement among students.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, the event transitioned to a drive-thru format, ensuring safety while maintaining its impact. Terry Desautels, chair of Women’s Way, expressed hopes for a return to walk-in events in the future. She emphasized the importance of continued community engagement and invited more volunteers to join their efforts.

This year's success underscores the critical role of community-driven initiatives in addressing local challenges. As Terry Desautels noted, "As long as the need is still there, we’re going to keep this program going."

From a reader’s perspective, the Supper for Six food drive serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience found in community solidarity. It highlights how collective action can make a tangible difference in people's lives, especially during challenging times. The event not only provides immediate relief but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility and compassion within the community. Such initiatives inspire hope and demonstrate that even small acts of kindness can create significant positive change.