Market 32 and Price Chopper Raise $44K for Special Olympics

03:49PM / Saturday, March 21, 2026Print Story | Email Story

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Market 32 and Price Chopper announced the results of a recent fundraising campaign that secured $44,284 for Special Olympics.

The total was finalized during a ceremonial check presentation at the Shoppers World Shopping Center in Clifton Park, N.Y.

Throughout January, customers at all 128 store locations across six states participated in a "round-up" initiative, contributing $34,284. Market 32 and Price Chopper added an additional $10,000 to the final total.

The funds are designated for Special Olympics programs in New York, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire. The donation will facilitate year-round training, local competitions, and inclusive athletic opportunities. According to company officials, the proceeds will also assist local athletes preparing for the 2026 USA Games.

The campaign coincided with the recent Paralympic and Winter Olympic games in Milan-Cortina, Italy. Stacey Hengsterman, President and CEO of Special Olympics New York, noted that retail campaigns are instrumental in advancing the movement and ensuring opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

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

By Brittany Polito03:00PM / Monday, September 28, 2026

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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