The Franklin FOOD ELVES would like to thank the
following businesses for their participation:
* Berry Insurance, Chestnut Dental Associates,
* Dean Bank, Dean College,
* DCU, East Coast Driving School,
* Emma's Quilt Cupboard, Franklin Downtown Partnership
* Jane's Frames, Murphy Business, RE/MAX Executive Realty
The Franklin Food Elves' "12 Days of Donating" campaign exceeded expectations for the second year in a row, bringing in more than two tons of non-perishable goods and over $5,700 to benefit the Franklin Food Pantry.
Working with the Franklin Downtown Partnership and local businesses, 50 Food Elves collected 4,223 pounds of goods. Eleven participating businesses each pledged $200 if the Elves met their goal. In addition, DCU donated $1,500, Berry Insurance donated $1,000, and numerous residents also wrote checks.
According to Linda Sottile, operations director at the Food Pantry, the money donated will be used to purchase goods through the Greater Boston Food Bank, where every $50 translates into 118 meals. The combination of the dollar amount with the weight of goods donated translates into close to 17,000 meals for the families who currently use the pantry.
"The community's response has been overwhelming," says Sottile. "In addition to the other contributions we've received this season we will definitely have the resources to help get us through March or April."
"Our need has increased this year and we worried how we were going to meet that need," says Erin Lynch, the Food Pantry's development director. "We are grateful to this community that really stepped up and gave this year."
Co-founders of the Franklin Food Elves Melissa and Cameron Piana are more than thrilled with the results. "It is amazing the good that people can do when everyone works together for a common goal," says Melissa. "We are so proud of our team of elves and for the generosity of the community."
"It is incredible what can be done in 12 days," Cameron added. "Each year we have been able to double the food donations."
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED... and to all our Food Elf volunteers....