Franklin Food Pantry History
Franklin Food Pantry
History
1990
Established
The Franklin Interfaith Council established the Franklin Interfaith Food Pantry.
More details
The Franklin Interfaith Council, an organization comprised of local faith communities to address the needs of the community, established the Franklin Interfaith Food Pantry as a standing committee. The inaugural Pantry Board had two members from each religious organization plus six members at large. The original mission was to provide supplemental food to individuals from Franklin and surrounding communities.
1993
Program Established
Established a Holiday Adopt-A-Family & Toy Program.
1995
Renamed
Renamed the Franklin Food Pantry, obtained 501(c)3 status, moved to the former Franklin Senior Center (currently the Franklin Historical Museum).
2000-2010
First Farmers Market
First Farmers Market, adopted first strategic plan, developed infrastructure, launched flagship Food Elves Campaign spearheaded by two Franklin youth.
2009
Location Move
Moved to current location, donated by Rockland Trust.
2011
Produce Points Program
Launched Produce Points Program at the Franklin Farmers Market with grant funding from MetroWest Community Healthcare Foundation.
2012
First Turkey Trot
Held first Turkey Trot, piloted Mobile Pantry Program, distribution increased by 35,000 lbs over 2011, crafted new puzzle logo and new mission statement.
2013
Refrigerated Delivery
Took delivery of a refrigerated box truck.
2014
Mobile Pantry
Governor Visits Pantry
First Mobile Pantry visits to Franklin Senior Center, Central Park Terrace & Winter Street.
Rep Jeff Roy & Governor Deval Patrick visited The Pantry.
2016
Empty Bowls
First Empty Bowls event at Franklin High School.
2017
Facilities Meeting
First meeting of the Facilities Committee.
2018
Backpack Program
Piloted Weekend Backpack Program with funding from Hockomock YMCA.
2019
Mission Statement
Mission statement updated.
2020
Covid Approach
Covid required new approaches – offered weekly curbside pickup, evening hours, and home delivery.
2022
New Building
Best Place to Volunteer
Purchased 341 W Central St. (formerly Edwin’s).
Won MyFM’s Quest For the Best: Best Place to Volunteer, expanded Weekend Backpack Program to all 11 public schools.