Portion of Chipotle sales to benefit Gray House in feeding more families through the Greater Springfield area

EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WWLP) – With just under half of the population in Hampden County considered food insecure, the Gray House in Springfield is helping to make sure people are fed by way of a partnership with a popular food chain.

Many people came to support the organization in raising money, so those in need could take home nutritious groceries. A popular place to eat in East Longmeadow was even more popular on Wednesday night. Those getting their favorite bowls and burritos at the Chipotle in town, also helping to give back to the community.

"I'm happy that even though it's like a big food chain. I'm happy it's supporting local causes.

The restaurant was hosting a fundraiser for the Gray House, an emergency food assistance program for the Greater Springfield area. "It's really important that the community can stand out and come and support that agency because the services they provide are crucial," said Zenaida Burgos of Springfield.

This was the agency's second fundraiser in September...to help provide nutritious groceries to families in need. It's all part of their 10th annual "Fill the Plate, Feed a Family Challenge".

"It's one of the basic parts of life, how could you go on with your life if you don't know where your next meal is coming from," added Robert Hoffman of Longmeadow.

"A lot of the families we are serving actually do have jobs but it's just they don't make the wages until the end of the month," expressed Executive Director, Kristen McClintock.

Since the pandemic, they've seen a big increase in the number of families facing food insecurity. Each week they serve nearly 400. On average last year, the agency served more than 5,100 each month.

"we're serving more migrants and refugees who've just recently resettled there is just a growing need. It's not just helping people through the end of the week," said McClintock.

The Gray House hopes to raise a total of $17,000 from this fundraiser initiative to keep food on the table for many. And while the fundraiser is over, it's not too late to still show your support and donate to Gray House by clicking here .

Local News Headlines