Join the Fight Against Hunger: Discover the Inspiring Berkshire Food Project

A Helping Hand in North Adams

The Berkshire Food Project has been fighting hunger and loneliness in North Adams, Massachusetts, since 1987. This community gem, staffed mostly by volunteers, has become a cornerstone for many who face food insecurity.

Roots and Growth

Originally, a group of Williams College students started the project to help after local industry downsizing left many without work. From offering meals twice a week, it has now expanded to serve hot lunches five days a week, feeding 50 to 100 people daily.

Lesa Bennett, the kitchen manager, notes the importance of community support. “Most of our ingredients come from donations, which allows us to provide wholesome meals,” she says.

In 2024, they served around 39,000 meals and are on track to surpass that this year. The increasing need in the community drives this growth, according to board president Tim Faselt.

Volunteer Spirit

Volunteers are the backbone of the project. In 2023, they contributed over 6,075 hours, with even more expected this year. “They prepare meals, clean up, and treat our guests with dignity,” Bennett adds, emphasizing the compassion and commitment of the volunteers.

One of these volunteers, Emilee Eichorn, expressed her joy in helping others. “Knowing people are getting the help they need makes me really happy,” she shares. Emilee believes that building community and understanding each other is just as important as the meals they serve.

Collaboration and Impact

The project collaborates with local businesses like Walmart and Stop & Shop for food donations, which supports their mission significantly. “Our partnership with Berkshire Bounty helps us connect with local farms for fresh produce,” Bennett mentions.

Meals are not just for those who come through the doors; they are also distributed to various organizations, like the Roots Teen Center, to help young people in need. Kenny River from the teen center says, “We provide healthy food options for youth, as we don’t always know what their situation is at home.”

Fostering Community Connections

While patrons enjoy meals, social services are also available onsite. Faselt explains that this collaboration helps avoid duplication of efforts among local organizations, which is crucial given the limited funding available for such initiatives.

Bennett highlights the warmth of the volunteer-driven environment, saying, “Guests often meet and socialize during meals, reducing feelings of isolation.”

Conclusion

The Berkshire Food Project isn’t just about providing meals; it’s about making human connections. As River puts it, “A Community Hero sees the needs around them and acts. The Berkshire Food Project has been doing just that for years.”

For more information, you can visit the Berkshire Food Project website.

Thanks to their tireless efforts, hundreds find nourishment and support in North Adams every week, proving that community can make a significant difference.

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