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Community Food Drive: Supporting Local Families Across Central Massachusetts

Central One Federal Credit Union Employees donate to Auburn Youth and Family Services for Thanksgiving

Food insecurity for families in Massachusetts has surged in recent years, climbing from 19% in 2019 to 37% in 2024. (Project Bread, 2025). This struggle often comes with other difficult financial trade-offs; with families having to make the painful choice between paying rent, affording medicine, or putting food on the table. These sacrifices erode stability, health, and overall quality of life.  

With more families seeking food assistance, there has never been a more crucial time for us to stand with and support our communities. In an effort to put food on the table for those in need this Thanksgiving, our branch teams came together to donate to local food banks and youth and family organizations. 

Thanks to our incredible staff, each branch was able to donate a significant amount of food, making a meaningful difference in their own communities. And in Shrewsbury, our branch team went above and beyond, donating an impressive 166 pounds of food to the Worcester County Food Bank. 

As part of our ongoing commitment to giving back, here’s a look at the donations our branches made this Thanksgiving. 

Branch-by-Branch Community Donations 

Auburn Branch: Auburn Youth & Family Services 

Milford Branch: Daily Bread Food Pantry 

Northborough Branch: Northborough Food Pantry 

Shrewsbury Branch: Worcester County Food Bank & Shrewsbury Senior Center 

Westborough Branch:  Westborough Food Pantry 

Worcester (Saint Vincent’s) Branch: T&G Santa FundNet of Compassion and Project New Hope 

Auburn Branch: Supporting Auburn Youth & Family Services 

One of the highlights of this year’s food drive was the Auburn branch’s contribution to Auburn Youth & Family Services, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting families facing financial hardship, food insecurity, and other challenges. 

Their team provides essential programs like after-school care, counseling, emergency assistance, and community food support. Partnering with them, especially during a season when the need is especially high, meant a lot to us. 

The week prior to Thanksgiving, our Auburn staff delivered several bags filled with non-perishable food items. We captured this moment knowing these donations make a real difference for local families who rely on AYFS every week. 

A Community Filled with Gratitude 

Alongside the food drive, our employees also took a moment to reflect on what they’re grateful for this Thanksgiving. Moments with family, good health, laughter, and everyday things that make life feel a little brighter. 

And in true Central One fashion, this season of gratitude wouldn’t feel complete without acknowledging the heart of our work: our members. 

We’re thankful for you, we’re inspired by you, and we’re proud to serve you. 

Happy Thanksgiving! 

 

References 

Project Bread. (2025). Hunger & food insecurity in Massachusetts. Food Assistance in Massachusetts | Project Bread. https://projectbread.org/hunger-by-the-numbers

Branch lobbies, drive-ups, and the Member Support Center will close at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, 2/3, for a staff meeting.