Community Partners Spotlight
At Food Link, we provide fresh and nutritious food to community-based organizations to help meet the needs of their constituents. Our distribution partners ensure that vulnerable populations — such as children and older adults facing food insecurity, those living in low-income housing or transitional housing, and those experiencing homelessness — have food access. In 2020, Food Link worked with over 100 agencies to rescue fresh food, alleviate hunger, and contribute to environmental sustainability.
Food Link greatly appreciates all of our partners and the work they do to make a difference. To show our gratitude, we want to recognize just a few of the agencies that go above and beyond to provide essential foods and services to those in need.
Massachusetts Bay Veterans Center (MBVC) - Somerville, MA
MBVC helps veterans find employment, housing, counseling, and mental health care. This programming is vital in providing resources and training for veterans, many of whom may be homeless. By providing prepared and fresh foods, Food Link’s deliveries allow MBVC to focus its resources on other essential services for veterans.
Project SOUP - Somerville, MA
Part of the Somerville Homeless Coalition, Project SOUP has been serving the Somerville community since 1969. A food pantry and soup kitchen, this organization addresses food insecurity by providing healthy, wholesome groceries and meals. Food Link delivers fresh and shelf-stable rescued foods to reach the community. Our connection with Project SOUP provides easy access for individuals and families in need of food.
Tierney Learning Center (TLC) - Boston, MA
Located in South Boston, TLC serves youth and families living in affordable housing communities. Their programs address the needs of low-income families, providing resources for all ages. Food Link supplies fresh produce, dairy, and meat for TLC’s pop-up pantries and youth-based programs. For the youth programs, our staff and volunteers make personalized snack bags of individual healthy snacks, such as fruits and yogurt. This partnership introduces youth to new and healthy food options, in addition to nourishing all families and residents.
Wayside Youth & Family Support Network - Arlington, MA
Wayside’s resource centers and supportive living programs aim to transition young adults to adulthood. Programs consist of housing, mentoring and workshops, and counseling and case management services. Food Link’s relationship with Wayside includes snacks, prepared foods, and easy-to-cook meals. The programs at Wayside — paired with rescued and donated foods — teach independent living skills and healthy habits.
All of us at Food Link appreciate the vital partnerships we have forged over the years. Our community partners are essential to achieving Food Link’s mission. Please visit our website to learn more about our program, community partners, and food industry donors.
This piece is part of Food Link’s Fall 2021 newsletter. Click here to view more articles from this issue.