Hi folks! In this episode we'll look at the SNAP crisis and what Holyoke and Springfield are doing in reaction.
First I'll talk about what Springfield is doing and then you'll hear from Holyoke Mayor Garcia about the city's financial situation and then its response to the SNAP issue.
If you want to help those facing greater food insecurity in Springfield, here is where to make a donation. Cash donation can be made online at: www.foodbankwma.org.
As Mayor Sarno noted at his presser, the city of Springfield departments and local partners will be collecting donations of non-perishable food items for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, which will serve as the distribution center for all of our local food pantries. All our Springfield Library locations will serve as collection points for non-perishable food donations. The Hampden County Sheriff's Office will provide logistical support to get donations delivered to the Food Bank. In addition, Sarno and HHS Commissioner Caulton-Harris announced the City of Springfield will also support our local food pantries in the community with a $45,000 grant.
In Holyoke, here is how you can make a difference. The Holyoke Board of Health is coordinating a food drive city-wide. There are several locations you can drop off boxed shelf-stable foods and canned goods to help with No 1 Hungry Holyoke initiative. These locations include:
-> Any of the Holyoke Fire Department fire stations throughout the city.
-> Holyoke Police Department station.
-> Holyoke Public Library
-> Holyoke Tax Collector Office at Holyoke City Hall
-> The City Clerk's Office at Holyoke City Hall
-> The Board of Health at the Annex Building
-> Mayor's Office at Holyoke City Hall
