HOLYOKE — With food insecurity on the rise, the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce is rallying local businesses and residents to expand its annual food drive, ensuring donations stay within the community.
The effort will benefit the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and Margaret’s Pantry, two organizations that provide critical support to families in the Greater Holyoke area. The Food Bank alone distributes more than 15 million meals each year to 122,000 people across the region.
To make donating easier, the chamber set up two drop-off sites with help from local businesses. Donations can be left at 850 High Street LLC, which is near Route 391, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Holyoke Mall at Ingleside also is collecting items at its security office. Hours there are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
To spotlight the initiative, the chamber will host an event on Dec. 3 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 850 High St., featuring a check presentation and updates on the drive’s progress.
