Partially inspired by our recent feature on WCVB, this week we wanted to discuss our partnerships with local food distribution organizations. As part of their “5 For Good” series, Channel 5 did a story about A Place to Turn Food Pantry in Natick and highlighted Stearns as a farm that donates produce to them during the growing season. You can check out the clip here.
A Place to Turn has been providing emergency food and clothing to those in need for 40 years. As a choice food pantry, this non-profit is committed to providing individuals and families with fresh produce throughout the season. In addition to donations from Stearns Farm and the Framingham Community Farm, volunteers also tend to five community plots in the area to ensure those struggling with food insecurity have plenty of healthy options in these challenging times. Check out their website and consider donating to help neighbors in need.
Stearns is able to donate vegetables to A Place to Turn because the farm was awarded a grant through the Alice Willard Dorr Foundation. The foundation provides grants for charitable work, primarily in Massachusetts, that supports underserved persons and which prevents cruelty to children and animals. With this grant, we are able to set aside 5 shares to donate to A Place to Turn each week. This helps to expand our reach in our community and gives the organization great variety and high quality produce our sharers get to enjoy during the season.
In addition to A Place to Turn, Stearns regularly donates produce to the following locations:
St. Bridget’s Food Pantry – Food Distribution: The Food Pantry serves the needy in Framingham with grocery items to supplement their weekly food requirements. Located on 15 Wheeler Ave, Framingham.
HOPE Framingham Food Pantry: Founded in 1993, the pantry has had the same mission since the doors were opened – provide healthy food and services to the needy and underserved population of the Metro West area in a manner that provides our clients dignity and respect. Around 400 families are provided support on a monthly basis. HOPE is located on 214 Concord St, Framingham.
Rachel’s Table: Founded in 1989, Rachel’s Table began as a food rescue program in Worcester, Massachusetts, with a mission to reduce food waste and fight hunger. Every week, thousands of pounds of high-quality surplus food are delivered to more than 30 local homeless shelters, neighborhood pantries, group homes, day programs, and soup kitchens.
As members, you not only help to support open spaces and sustainable, local agriculture, you all make it possible for us to donate excess produce to those who need it. Thank you for your continued support and let us know if you would like to find out more about any of the locations we donate to.
Until next time,
Ember
