The Franklin Food Pantry in Franklin has been making significant strides in providing supplemental food assistance. This November, they distributed an impressive 484 Thanksgiving meals, marking a remarkable 73% increase from the 279 meals given out last year. This substantial growth can be attributed to a brand new Thanksgiving meal distribution process.

Enhanced Client-Centric Approach

This year, every client who shopped at The Pantry in November received a grocery store gift card and an extra bag. This allowed them to choose traditional Thanksgiving offerings or culturally relevant options, enabling them to celebrate in a way that holds meaning for them. The new distribution process was a direct response to client feedback and was designed to reach a larger number of people over an extended period.In the past, The Pantry would distribute pre-packed holiday meal kits during a single, designated time. However, the new process eliminates the need to sign up in advance, simplifies pickup times, and gets rid of waiting lists. It also reduces the burden on clients of making an additional trip to The Pantry.“As the Executive Director, Tina Powderly, emphasizes, ‘The Pantry’s new approach to providing holiday meals allows us to reach more families and provide food and resources to help everyone celebrate this special time of year.’ We are truly grateful to our dedicated volunteers and generous donors who have made this enhanced program possible.”

Winter Holiday Meal Distribution

This December, The Pantry is repeating the successful meal distribution process for the winter holidays. By continuing this approach, they aim to continue supporting families during the festive season.The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers a wide range of programs to assist more than 1,800 individuals per year. These include in-person shopping, curbside pick-up, emergency food bags, mobile pantries, home delivery, kids’ snack bags, weekend backpacks, holiday meal kits, and the SNAP match at Franklin Farmers Market.The Pantry is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in good standing in Massachusetts. It has been recognized by Charity Navigator as a Four-Star Charity and awarded GuideStar’s Platinum Transparency ranking. Located at 341 W. Central St. in Franklin, MA on Route 140, it is easily accessible for those in need.For more information on supporting the Franklin Food Pantry through donations or volunteerism, please visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org/get-involved. If you or someone you know needs food assistance, please visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org/get-help or contact The Pantry at 508-528-3115.