GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Since then, it has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires people to give, collaborate and celebrate generosity.
Many organizations use the occasion, when people are being encouraged to give of their time or their resources, to set a goal and to tell their stories. However, some of the smaller organizations that are already stretched thin fulfilling their missions may find it hard to find the time.
Below is a list of some of the nonprofit organizations in the Hilltowns that would welcome the support. As one Hilltowner said, “There are quite a few nonprofits in the Hilltowns that can’t afford to get the word out about this fundraiser.”
Gateway Education Foundation
Since 2012, the Gateway Education Foundation is proud to have funded over 120 educational projects totaling over $119,000. These mini grants offer opportunities for students in a rural, and economically disadvantaged area. Your gifts provide students an opportunity to participate in learning activities that would be difficult to accomplish without this critical financial support: gatewayeducationfoundation.org.
Hilltown Community Ambulance Association
Hilltown Community Ambulance Association at 1 Bromley Rd. in Huntington, which provides EMS services to the communities of Blandford, Chester, Huntington, Montgomery, Russell and Worthington, is a 501c3 nonprofit public safety organization staffed by EMTs and paramedics who are largely community members and committed to giving top-notch prehospital care to those we serve. Donations may be made online at hilltownambulance.org, or mailed to HCAA at P.O. Box 351, Huntington, MA 01050-0351.
Hilltown Community Health Centers Holiday Help drive
For more than 20 years, local families have received help with gifts for their children through a community project called Hilltown Holiday Help. This annual effort organized by the Hilltown Community Health Centers in conjunction with the Gateway Regional High School National Honor Society serves low to moderate income hilltown families with children from birth through age 12 with clothing, books and toys. Last year, the drive provided gifts for 164 children from 67 families. Their greatest need this year is winter coats and boots. Donors may contact Kim Savery at 413-685-3500 or ksavery@hchcweb.org for more information on “adopting” a family or how to donate goods or money. Monetary donations may be mailed attention Kim Savery, c/o HCHC Finance Office at 587 Old North Rd., Worthington, MA 01098 or via the website at hchcweb.org/hilltown-holiday-help/. If you know of a family in need, please have them contact Kim Savery or Susan LeBarron at 413-307-6012 or slebarron@hchcweb.org
The Huntington Food Pantry
Huntington Food Pantry, a 501c3 nonprofit, is located on the lower level of the Pioneer Valley Assembly of God on 63 Old Chester Rd. and provides food to the residents of Huntington and more than a dozen surrounding hilltowns. The pantry is open Thursdays from 9-11:30 a.m. and 2-4:30 p.m. Anyone wishing to make a donation may send a check to Huntington Food Pantry, P.O. Box 477, Huntington, MA 01050, or give online at pioneervalleyag.org/foodpantry. For more information, call 413-667-3196..
The Village Closet
The Village Closet, 2 E. Main St. in Huntington is the largest basic needs supply program in Western Massachusetts, offering an extensive assortment of baby supplies, clothing from newborn to adult, books, toys, diapers, and safety gear such as car seats and safe sleep options. Last year, The Village Closet provided $713,000 in basic needs supplies to nearly 10,000 individuals. The program is available to all families, and accepts new and “almost new” donations. A program of It Takes A Village, which since 2009 has created a crucial safety net for families in Western Massachusetts, providing basic needs supplies, easing postpartum struggles and helping families transition from crisis to stability. Donations may be mailed to It Takes a Village, P.O. Box 304, Huntington, MA 01050, or made online at hilltownvillage.org. A complete list of all area drop boxes and an Amazon holiday wish list is also online. The Village Closet is open to the public for donations, shopping and volunteering on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mondays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the first Tuesday of each month from 5-7 p.m.
Western Mass Hilltown Hikers
Western Mass Hilltown Hikers, a 501c3 organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the history and natural beauty of the Hilltowns for all to enjoy, is working to restore the Chester Hudson and Granite Works property, near the old Chester Railway Station, which they purchased on Sept. 25, 2023. Learn more about this organization and how to help support their efforts by going to hilltownhikers.com or send donations to Western Mass Hilltown Hikers Inc. at PO Box 3, Chester, MA 01011. All donations are tax deductible and a receipt will be provided.
Join the movement by giving your time, a donation, or the power of your voice in your local community. Town committees are always seeking volunteers. Also, consider the needs of the town library, council on aging, fire and police departments, many of whom are conducting holiday drives of their own.
Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue, or sharing resources to those in need, every act of generosity counts and everyone has something to contribute toward building the better world for all.
