Residents living at Carnation Drive, here in Tewksbury, were given the opportunity to partake in their very own farmer’s market.
A few months back, Melissa Maniscalco, Exec. Director of the Tewksbury Housing Authority was approached by Makayla Clougherty from the Merrimack Valley Food Bank with an idea to offer the residents an assortment of fruits and vegetables free of charge. On June 20th, that idea happened to the delight of all involved. Makayla and her staff arrived around noon at the Community Center, and with the generous help of the TJX Foundation the produce was unloaded, displayed and the “shopping” began. Residents were given shopping bags and with help and assistance from TJX interns, they were able to pick out their favorite items and there was a lot to pick from.
Makayla Clougherty has been with the Food Bank for over 2 years, and she is currently the Public Health and Marketing Coordinator for this non-profit agency. “The market program offers residents the opportunity to supplement their groceries, by enjoying fresh produce and other food staples at no cost. Produce for the Market comes from several sources including donations from local farms and farmer’s markets and purchases from local farms and produce companies.”
Lynne Griffin and James Pagliazzo are employees at the TJX Distribution Center in Woburn. Along with their daily work at the center, they oversee the TJX Co-op program and the many interns from local schools, as well as contribute to outreach programs in the surrounding communities. Partnering with the MVFB is just one of those programs.
When people come together, good things happen. Thank you, Macayla, for reaching out to the Tewksbury Housing Authority. Thank you, Melissa, for providing the space and another big thank you, to Lynne, James and the U.S. Foundation of TJX for supplying the many hands necessary to complete this wonderful experience for the residents at Carnation Drive, Tewksbury.
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