PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire United Way (BUW) has awarded $51,630 to 15 local organizations to strengthen food distribution efforts in response to rising food insecurity and recent disruptions in federal assistance programs such as SNAP. 

 

Following a thorough application and review process, BUW provided funding to: Berkshire Bounty, Berkshire Community College Foundation, Berkshire Dream Center, Berkshire Grown, Community Health Programs (CHP), First United Methodist Church, Friends of the Pittsfield Senior Center, Great Barrington Farmers Market, Pittsfield Community Food Pantry, seeing rainbows, Sonrisas, The Christian Center, The People's Pantry, Village Food Box, and Westside Legends. 

 

"We will absolutely put these funds to good use. Your efforts to raise funds and distribute them so quickly are incredible," said Bethany Kieley, chief executive officer of CHP. "This aid is exceptionally meaningful for our community at this time and is deeply appreciated," added maayan nuri héd, executive director of seeing rainbows. 

 

The funding combines local donations with support from the United Response Fund, which enabled all 13 United Ways in Massachusetts to expand and stabilize food access through increased pantry capacity, direct financial relief, and culturally appropriate food options. 

 

"None of our Berkshire neighbors should face hunger," said Katherine von Haefen, BUW president and CEO. "The quick and collaborative work of our local food organizations and the generosity of our community is a powerful reminder that when we come together, we can create lasting change."

 

Support BUW and food and emergency relief at www.berkshireunitedway.org/donate.