Market 32 and Freihofer's Launch Campaign for Parkinson’s Research

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SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Market 32 and Price Chopper have partnered with Freihofer's Baking Company to launch an in-store fundraising campaign benefiting the Parkinson's Foundation.

The initiative, running through March and April, provides financial support for research, patient care, and efforts to find a cure for Parkinson's disease.

During the two-month promotion, $0.10 from every purchase of select Freihofer's products will be donated to the foundation. Participating items are identified by specially marked shelf tags in most Market 32 and Price Chopper locations.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition and the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States. According to the organizations, the disease affects nearly one million Americans, with a new diagnosis occurring approximately every six minutes.

"Parkinson's disease touches countless families across our communities," said Pam Cerrone, director of community relations for Market 32 and Price Chopper. “By partnering with Freihofer's, we're inviting our customers to join us in making a tangible difference."

The collaboration is part of a decade-long charitable history between the retailers and the baking company. Since 2014, the partnership between Market 32, Price Chopper, and Freihofer's has raised a total of $2.5 million for various non-profit and charitable organizations.

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Second Streets Second Chances Awarded $85K for Workforce Re-Entry Program

By Brittany Polito

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A local program for formerly incarcerated citizens seeking a technical career received $85,000 from the state.  

On Thursday, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $2.25 million in Re-entry Workforce Development Demonstration Program grants to 12 organizations that will provide job training, career support, and employment opportunities to 445 formerly incarcerated individuals returning to their communities.

Second Street Second Chances was allocated $84,712 to partner with the Berkshire County Sheriff's Office to offer a training program to 12 returning citizens with a focus on the advanced manufacturing and engineering industry.  

The funds will be used to put 12 returning citizens through a training program with a focus on the advanced manufacturing and engineering industry. Successful program graduates will be placed in manufacturing and welding roles at Onyx Specialty Papers and Hi-Tech Mold and Tool.

The program was one of 12 awardees, a majority on the eastern side of the state; Greenfield also saw funding.

"When people return to their communities, they should have a real opportunity to get a good job, support their families and build a stable future," said Gov. Maura Healey in a press release. 

"These grants connect people with the training and experience they need to succeed and with employers that are ready to hire."

Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll said successful reentry means making sure people have the tools and opportunities to move forward, and these programs bring together community organizations, public safety partners, and employers to connect people directly with training and jobs. 

Launched in 2022, Second Street Second Chances' mission is to provide a central point of access for medical and mental health, housing, job training, legal services, and more for a successful reentry into the community. 

Early this year, the nonprofit saw an $89,000 grant from the program.  Executive Director Lindsay Cornwell at the time said this funding allowed 2nd Street to expand its mission of supporting returning citizens in Berkshire County through meaningful workforce opportunities and a pathway toward sustainable employment. 

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