The Local Assistance Fund
This past year, 2019, we provided aid to a number of individuals as they coped with issues of shelter and warmth. Support for the Local Assistance Fund comes from monthly TPCC donations, as well as, private philanthropic individuals and organizations. Referrals for assistance come through the Hardwick Food Pantry or church.
Hardwick Food Pantry
The Hardwick Food Pantry, located in the basement of the Hardwick Municipal Building on Rte 32 in Gilbertville, assists over 100 families a month. Our greatest expense is the food coupon program, in which the Hardwick Food Pantry issues coupons valued at $20.00 each which are redeemed for meat, eggs, and produce at the Hardwick Farmers Market throughout the Summer and Fall months. The Food Pantry also receives food donations from The Worcester County Food bank, local grocery stores and area collections from civic organizations, school groups, and churches. Food distribution is twice a month, once a month in summer. Support for the Food Pantry comes from TPCC donations, as well as private philanthropic individuals and organizations. Contact Liz Reilly at 413-477-6635 for assistance.
The Mustard Seed.
Every third Monday of the month a small group of dedicated souls gather at the New Braintree Town Hall to prepare a meal for The Mustard Seed Ministry in Worcester and Jeremiah’s Inn. Support for The Mustard Seed come from TPCC donations and the volunteers who perform this work.
Cancer Care Bags
This past Summer and Fall, members and friends of the Tri-Parish made re-usable tote bags and filled them with donated toiletries, hand-made hats and PICC line covers, Bibles, game books, pens and other comfort items and delivered about 20 bags to the oncology department of Mary Lane Hospital for distribution to patients undergoing cancer treatment.
Mission Christmas Tree
This year we donated our Mission Christmas Tree at the Hardwick Universalist Church with member -donated mittens, hats and scarves with were later provided to the local police and our Food Pantry for distribution to those in need.
Fellowship Dinners
We have begun holding free Fellowship Dinners at the New Braintree Church. We held two in the Fall; one hosted by Susan Kallander and Marguerite Crevier in September and one hosted by Alice May Lowell in October. Approximately 20 family, friends and neighbors enjoyed good meals and great conversation at each event. These gatherings are continuing into 2020 as potluck lunches once a month, at noon , in the winter months.
