By MyFM’s Marissa Santos – The Franklin Food Pantry, a private, nonprofit organization offering supplemental food assistance, was granted $50,000 in the Massachusetts Fiscal Year 2025 State Budget. State Representative Jeffrey Roy spearheaded the funding, which will support enhanced client programs including in person shopping, the Franklin Public Schools Weekend Backpack program, food delivery for homebound clients, and The Pantry’s building upkeep and maintenance. This is the fourth consecutive year that Representative Roy, a champion in ending hunger, has secured funding for The Pantry from the state.
“Individuals and families in our community are experiencing hunger,” says Tina Powderly, Executive Director, Franklin Food Pantry. “In the past year, The Pantry has welcomed lifelong residents and families who for a variety of reasons or circumstances seek food assistance. Because of the support from our leaders and lawmakers including State Representative Jeffrey Roy, we’re able to help those in need and provide access to healthy, nutritious food.”
Upon moving to 341 W. Central St. in Franklin in June of 2023, The Pantry saw an immediate increase in demand of about 40 percent over last year—and that increase remained constant through Fiscal Year 2024. Pantry staff attributes the increase to greater visibility on route 140, as well as the high cost of food, housing, and other expenses.
“The Franklin Food Pantry is essential to our community in providing supplemental food assistance to more than 1,300 individuals each year,” said State Representative Jeffrey Roy (D) 10th Norfolk. “I am happy to have secured $50,000 in the Massachusetts Fiscal Year 2025 State Budget as so many residents in the Commonwealth are struggling with food insecurity and these funds will help with finishing the building project and enhancing programs in the new facility. I am grateful to The Pantry for its continued commitment and dedication to our community.”
To learn more about how you can support the Franklin Food Pantry, and help end food insecurity in the community, please visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org.
Photo Caption: State Representative Jeff Roy announces to Marsha Tait, Development Director (L) and Tina Powderly, Executive Director (R) the allocation of $50,000 to the Franklin Food Pantry.
Photo Credit: Paul Vicario
