The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Hosts Food Equity Event at Springfield College
June 6, 2024 [Chicopee, MA] – The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts is pleased to host its second annual Voices in Food Equity event on Wednesday, June 12, from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Springfield College. This highly anticipated gathering brings together community leaders and residents to discuss food equity in the region. The event is sponsored by Alekman DiTusa, LLC and the Talcott Financial Group.
Voices in Food Equity will feature a panel discussion with prominent voices in food equity who will share their insights and experiences specifically addressing food insecurity for children, youth, and college- students. Attendees will also enjoy refreshments and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration and deeper community engagement.
“We are excited to host the Voices in Food Equity event for the second year,” said Andrew Morehouse, Food Bank Executive Director. “We believe that by bringing together diverse perspectives, we can inspire meaningful action to create greater food equity and food security for everyone in Western Massachusetts.”
The panel discussion will include the following speakers:
- Joesiah Gonzalez (moderator), Chief Philanthropy & Communications Officer, Home City Development, Springfield
- Catalina López-Ospina, Vice President of Engagement, Project Bread, Boston
- José Lopez-Figueroa, Director, Center for the Access Services (CAS) and Thrive Center, Springfield Technical Community College
- Shannon Rudder, President and Chief Executive Officer, Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services, Springfield
- Abby Getman Skillicorn, Special Projects Manager, Massachusetts Farm to School, Boston
Topics to be covered in the discussion include innovative approaches to food assistance, the role of public schools and colleges, local agriculture, and empowering underserved communities.
“We invite everyone who is concerned or passionate about food equity to join us for an evening of thoughtful dialogue and networking,” said Morehouse. “Together, we can create a Western Massachusetts where no one faces food insecurity, and everyone always has access to nutritious food.”
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, June 12, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Springfield College, 263 Alden Street, Springfield
The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. Please visit foodbankwma.org to reserve your spot.
About the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts: Since 1982, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts has been a community partner to end hunger. We provide healthy and culturally responsive food directly through our own Mobile Food Bank and Brown Bag food distribution sites, and through the food assistance network in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties. This network is comprised of 186 independent food pantries, meal sites and shelters that are on the front lines providing food and resources to individuals, families, seniors, children, veterans, and people with disabilities so they may lead healthy and meaningful lives. The Food Bank partners on public education and advocacy to address systemic barriers that cause hunger. We believe everyone has a right to healthy food.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Deb Ondo, Communications and Engagement Manager, Food Bank of Western Massachusetts
debo@foodbankwma.org Phone: 413-419-0170.