The Worcester State North Parking Lot was the site of a food distribution operation that allowed 500 city families to receive food packages with fresh fruits and vegetable, dairy and meat products, and non-perishable items donated by local businesses, such as Polar Beverages and Ocean State Job Lots. Worcester State students and staff helped with the distribution, and Conference and Events Services (CESO) ran logistics for the operation, which was supported by many community organizations, including the United Way and Mass Military Support Foundation.
The “Drive-Through Pantry” will happen every Thursday morning, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., through January at the same location. To receive a food box, you must register here: https://mmsfi.org/ and scroll down to the Patriot Farm Food Box—WORCESTER.
According to Director of the Binienda Center Mark Wagner, Ph.D., Worcester State’s involvement was arranged by President Barry M. Maloney and United Way of Central Massachusetts CEO Tim Garvin.
“A number of community partners came together to address issues of hunger and shelter that will have direct and immediate impact in Worcester,” says Wagner. “Not only individuals, but Catholic Charities and shelters, such as The Grace Hotel, who are working with vulnerable populations, played a role. Logistically, our university played a key role, with big ups to Mike McKenna and his staff in CESO for maintaining a safe environment.”
Other partners included The Woo Sox, Central West Justice, and the Worcester Together Response Team. Worcester State’s food pantry, Thea’s Pantry, also benefited from the donated food.
Student volunteers included Charles Bray, Kevin Cox, Megan Foley, Muhammad Shayan Farrukh, Myles Wagner, Noah J Aurelio, Sarah Farnham, and Therence Tnihinduka. Other volunteers included Pamela Hayes, Joanne Jaber Gauvin, Joanne LaMorticelli, Maura Pavao, and Monica Elefterion. If you would like to volunteer for upcoming Drive Through Food Pantry please email UAI@worcester.edu or wsu_biniendacenter@worcester.edu.
Our News
Men’s Soccer Holding Shoe Drive to Benefit Funds2Orgs
The Worcester State University men’s soccer team kicked off a two-month-long shoe drive on Thursday, Dec. 31, benefitting the non-profit organization Funds2Orgs. Funds2Orgs is a . . .
Maggie, did you receive a box during the drive?
Hello would like to no if I may stop buy next Thursday grab a box I’m a disabled person but have my own transportation,,i have kids fam.of 4pls ty
To receive a food box, you must register here: https://mmsfi.org/ and scroll down to the Patriot Farm Food Box—WORCESTER.
Hello I would like a box but have a question any delivery iam disable