Home 2025 March (Page 4)

Month: March 2025

Allied Flooring, Paint & Design and Budget Cabinets Support Jenna’s Blessing Bags

By
Daily News

AGAWAM — Allied Flooring, Paint & Design and Budget Cabinets donated $1,213.98, along with three boxes of life essentials, to Jenna’s Blessing Bags, a nonprofit dedicated to providing backpacks filled with necessities for those in need. The donation was the result of a successful holiday collection drive, where the community came together to support this important cause.

Throughout the holiday season, Allied Flooring, Paint & Design and Budget Cabinets invited customers and community members to contribute items for Jenna’s Blessing Bags. As an added incentive, anyone who donated 10 or more items from the provided list received 5% off their subtotal, and Allied Flooring matched that 5% with a monetary donation. The funds and donated supplies will go toward helping individuals experiencing homelessness in Massachusetts and Connecticut.

“We are incredibly grateful to our community for their generosity and support,” said Becky Tedeschi, president of Allied Flooring, Paint & Design. “Jenna’s Blessing Bags is doing amazing work in honor of Jenna Burleigh, and we’re honored to be part of their mission.”

Kevin Montemagni, board member of Jenna’s Blessing Bags, worked alongside Allied Flooring to make this donation possible. The backpacks are distributed to multiple organizations, ensuring they reach those who need them most.

For more information on Jenna’s Blessing Bags and how to get involved, visit www.jennasblessingbags.org.

Tickets on Sale for 2025 Difference Makers Awards Gala

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Tickets are on sale for the 17th annual Difference Makers awards gala, hosted by BusinessWest. The event will take place on Wednesday, April 9 at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. Click here to purchase tickets.

The class of 2025, profiled in the Feb. 17 of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, includes Jennie Adamczyk, executive director of Providence Ministries; Sheryl Blancato, CEO of Second Chance Animal Services; Andrea Bordenca, CEO of DESCO Service; Mychal Connolly, CEO of Stand Out Truck; John Delaney, director of Ride to Remember; John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame; the Michael J. Dias Foundation; and Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank.

The 17th annual Difference Makers program is sponsored by Burkhart Pizzanelli, the Royal Law Firm, TommyCar Auto Group, and Westfield Bank.

The Difference Makers program was launched in 2009 to recognize and celebrate the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions that are positively impacting the Pioneer Valley. As our winners have shown, there are many ways to make a difference within our community: through work on initiatives to improve quality of life; through success in business, public service, or education; through contributions that inspire others to get involved; through imaginative efforts to help solve one or more societal issues; or through a combination of the above.

For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

Tech Foundry Announces New Hires, Promotions

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Tech Foundry, the regional leader in IT workforce development and training, announced the hiring of three new staff members as well as promotions of existing staff to support the organization’s growing operations.

Marie-Ange Delimon, Tech Foundry’s Community Impact manager, was recently promoted to Community Impact director. She graduated from Tech Foundry’s IT support training program in June 2021 and was quickly hired as the organization’s Workforce Development manager. In her three and a half years at Tech Foundry, she has substantially grown the organization’s employer and community partner network, streamlined the recruitment process of its IT support training, and upgraded internship and job-placement procedures.

Lian Duan joined the Tech Foundry leadership team as the new director of Strategic Initiatives, where she will oversee the exploration, development, launch, management, and evaluation of new projects as well as spearheading review and continuous improvement of current initiatives. She has more than a decade of experience in STEM education and several years in management at an international education company. She holds a master of education degree in math, science, and learning technology from UMass Amherst and is currently pursuing a doctorate in the same program.

Juan Torres was promoted to technical manager for the new Tech Hub in Springfield, where he will oversee daily operations. He was an essential member of the first Tech Hub team in Holyoke, where he helped support the launch of digital-literacy training, technical-support services, community workshops, and device distribution. He is also a graduate of the Tech Foundry IT Support training program, completing the program in the fall of 2023.

Iman Zafar joined the Tech Foundry team as the organization’s new office manager. She graduated from George Washington University with a bachelor’s degree in political science and women, gender, and sexuality studies. She has worked as a research assistant in the Political Science department at GW, collecting data on government elections for gerrymandering research. She previously interned for the United Nations Assoc. of Greater Boston, helping facilitate its Model UN program and conferences.

Floyd Zamarripa, a recent Tech Foundry graduate, was hired as the organization’s new Career Services coordinator. In this role, he will oversee all aspects of employer engagement and job and internship placement. He is an experienced IT professional, writer, movie-theater operator, and marketing director who recently moved to Western Mass. from Springfield, Mo. with his family.

“Tech Foundry’s greatest asset is our team of dedicated professionals,” said Tricia Canavan, CEO of Tech Foundry. “Their passion and commitment to our mission are helping to better the lives of the people we serve, the communities we support, and the businesses with whom we partner.”

Applications Now Open for the Big Parade at the Big E

By
Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Anyone interested in showcasing their group or organization in the Big Parade at the Big E is invited to fill out an application through thebige.com, now through June 27. The Big Parade winds around the fairgrounds daily at 6 p.m. during the fairtaking place Sept. 12-28.

The Big Parade features nine Mardi Gras floats, charming trolleys, a Clydesdale-drawn carriage, classic cars, a larger-than-life giant puppet, and more.

Parade participation is open to the following categories: color guards, marching bands, cheer teams, drill teams, custom/collector cars, specialty floats, costumed characters, trolleys, and performance groups.

While the Big E strives to accommodate applicants on their preferred dates, not all requests can be fulfilled. Organizers do their best to align participants with the appropriate special days and state days; however, due to parade length limitations, each category has a set number of slots per day. Applying early does not guarantee a specific date, as selections are made to ensure a well-balanced program across all 17 days.

Tickets to participate in the Mardi Gras Reveler Experience, a highly anticipated tradition that allows fairgoers to board an authentic float constructed by New Orleans’s own Kern Companies, party, and toss beads to the cheering crowd, will go on sale to the public on Friday, Aug. 1.

MountainOne’s Jessica Andrews Earns Anti-Money Laundering, Fraud Certification

By
Daily News

Jessica Andrews

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne announced that Jessica Andrews, assistant vice president, Deposit Compliance officer, and Fraud Administration officer, has earned the Certified Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Fraud Professional (CAFP) certification from the American Bankers Assoc. (ABA).

This achievement highlights Andrews’ commitment to professional development. She successfully completed the required continuing education and passed a challenging qualifying exam.

The ABA’s CAFP certification is a respected benchmark of excellence, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated advanced proficiency in combating money laundering and fraud. It ensures that certified professionals are equipped to meet the industry’s highest standards for preventing financial crimes.

“Jessica’s certification reflects her dedication to excellence and MountainOne’s proactive approach to safeguarding our customers,” said Stephanie Scott, vice president, Risk Management and BSA Compliance officer. “Her expertise strengthens our fraud-prevention efforts and ensures we remain ahead of evolving financial threats.”

The American Bankers Assoc. is the largest trade association for the U.S. banking industry, representing banks of all sizes and charters. In addition to offering a wide range of training and certification programs, the ABA provides educational resources to help banking professionals stay current with industry standards and regulations, playing a critical role in supporting the overall health and integrity of the financial sector.

PNCU Partners with Alianza to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) is partnering with Alianza, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence, to host a collection drive aimed at providing essential items for individuals and families in need. The initiative will run through the end of April, with a collection drop-off available through April 30 at PNCU Insurance Services, 270 Westfield Road, Holyoke.

The drive aims to provide essential items such as toiletries, personal-care products, and household necessities to individuals and families transitioning to safety.

“We are honored to support Alianza in their mission to help survivors of domestic violence,” said Jim Kelly, president and CEO of Polish National Credit Union. “By collecting these essential items, we hope to provide comfort and support to those rebuilding their lives.”

Community members can donate new, unused items from the wish list at www.alianzadv.org, which includes toiletries, baby-care items, household essentials, and gift cards. Anyone with inquiries about the collection drive should email [email protected].

“Every donation, big or small, makes an impact,” said Mike Sugrue, PNCU’s executive vice president. “We encourage our members and the community to participate and help provide much-needed resources for Alianza and the individuals they serve.”

Tickets on Sale for 2025 Difference Makers Awards Gala

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Tickets are on sale for the 17th annual Difference Makers awards gala, hosted by BusinessWest. The event will take place on Wednesday, April 9 at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. Click here to purchase tickets.

The class of 2025, profiled in the Feb. 17 of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, includes Jennie Adamczyk, executive director of Providence Ministries; Sheryl Blancato, CEO of Second Chance Animal Services; Andrea Bordenca, CEO of DESCO Service; Mychal Connolly, CEO of Stand Out Truck; John Delaney, director of Ride to Remember; John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame; the Michael J. Dias Foundation; and Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank.

The 17th annual Difference Makers program is sponsored by Burkhart Pizzanelli, the Royal Law Firm, TommyCar Auto Group, and Westfield Bank.

The Difference Makers program was launched in 2009 to recognize and celebrate the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions that are positively impacting the Pioneer Valley. As our winners have shown, there are many ways to make a difference within our community: through work on initiatives to improve quality of life; through success in business, public service, or education; through contributions that inspire others to get involved; through imaginative efforts to help solve one or more societal issues; or through a combination of the above.

For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

Westfield Bank Promotes Nathan Boucher to Commercial Loan Officer

By
Daily News

Nathan Boucher

WESTFIELD — James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank, announced the promotion of Nathan Boucher to commercial loan officer. He is responsible for processing and closing approved loans, while also working with the middle-market lending team on business development in the Western Mass. and Northern Conn. territories.

Boucher joined Westfield Bank in 2021 as an intern in the main office and joined full-time as a data management specialist once his internship concluded. He later joined the bank’s Commercial Lending department as a commercial loan admin in 2024. He graduated from Western New England University in 2022 with a bachelor of business administration degree in finance, graduating with honors.

Outside of work, Boucher coaches Westfield Youth Hockey and the Western Mass Wizards.

St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke Announces Battle of the Bars Winner

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — On Feb. 28, the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke held the fifth annual Battle of the Bars bartending event at the Holyoke Knight of Columbus Council 90 to raise funds for the committee. Bartenders from six local bars competed for tips to determine a winner.

Facing off in teams of two, round one was taken by Donovan’s Irish Pub, represented by Trista Kasperowski, raising $5,997, against Pic’s Pub & Pizzeria, represented by Matt Dulude, who raised $1,639. Round two was captured by JP’s Restaurant, represented by Mary Kate Glasheen, with $9,416, against Halfway House Lounge, represented by Colleen Flanagan, who raised $7,639. Round three was taken by Griffin’s Cafe, represented by Ashleigh McNulty, raising $1,122, against Francie’s Tavern, represented by Chy Clemens, who raised $779.

In the end, JP’s Restaurant came out on top with $9,416 raised, and the entire night’s fundraiser brought in more than $26,500, a record total for the event.

A trophy celebration will be held at JP’s in the near future. All money raised goes toward the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke’s Marching Forward fundraising campaign to present the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade weekend and to preserve the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Road Race tradition for generations to come.

The 48th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race will take place on Saturday, March 22, and the 72nd Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade will be held on Sunday, March 23. For more information, visit www.holyokestpatricksparade.com.

Big Y Donates $75,000 to Red Cross California Wildfire Relief

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Big Y collected donations from customers and employees from Jan. 17 to Jan. 31 through its registers, online, and the myExpress mobile checkout app for California wildfire relief.

Community and employee contributions, along with additional support from Big Y, resulted in a total of $75,000 donated to the American Red Cross network response to provide humanitarian relief to people affected by wildfires in California.

“We are truly grateful for the generosity of our customers and employees in response to the recent California wildfires,” Big Y President and CEO Michael D’Amour said. “Additionally, we appreciate our partnership with the American Red Cross for providing unwavering support and much-needed resources to those impacted by this devastation. Together, we are able to provide relief and hope to these affected communities.”

D’Amour added that Big Y, along with its customers and employees, have a strong history of coming together to support those in need through the American Red Cross.

Hampden District Attorney’s Office Welcomes Payton North

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Hampden District Attorney’s Office announced the hiring of Payton North as its Communications director. North previously worked as executive editor of Reminder Publishing and brings eight years of media and communication experience to her new position.

“I’m thrilled to join the Hampden District Attorney’s Office as its Communications director,” she said. “The work of the DA’s Office plays a vital role in our community, and the mission of the office is one that resonates with me both personally and professionally.”

While at Reminder Publishing, North rose from the role of staff writer through the ranks to executive editor, overseeing the company’s news production. Over the course of her tenure, she garnered many accolades, such as BusinessWest’s 40 Under Forty class of 2024, the 2024 Western New England Young Alumni Achievement Award, the 2024 Assoc. of Community Publishers Rising Star award, and recognition among the 2023 Editor & Publisher’s 25 Under 35.

The Hampden District Attorney’s Office began the search for a new communications director following the departure of long-time Communications Director Jim Leydon. North and Assistant Communications Director Elijah Ayers will serve as media contacts for the Hampden District Attorney’s Office.

“Transparency and communication with the public whom we serve is, and has been, a matter of great importance to my administration,” Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni said. “I hired Payton after a lengthy and thorough process, and I firmly believe that she will serve the Hampden District Attorney’s Office, and the people of the region, with decency, truthfulness, and professionalism. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with members of the media and our service to the public.”

North holds a master’s degree in public relations, advertising, and applied communication from Western New England University, where she also attained bachelor’s degree in journalism. In addition, she received an associate of arts and sciences degree from Holyoke Community College. Dedicated to the community, she serves as a board of directors member for both the YWCA and the Spirit of Springfield.

Greater Springfield Habitat to Kick Off Women Build Event on March 12

By
Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — In honor of Women’s History Month, International Women’s Day, and Habitat for Humanity International’s Women Build Week, Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity will kick off its Women Build event on Wednesday, March 12 at White Lion Brewing’s Community Boom Room, 1500 Main St., Springfield. The event starts at 6 p.m. and is free to the public. No registration is necessary.

Women Build provides an opportunity for women to take the proactive step in helping limited-income women and their families build stability through affordable homeownership. More than 70% of Habitat homeowners are women.

To participate, individuals and teams fundraise or obtain a sponsorship. Then they build for a day or two together, contributing to make a home more affordable. It costs approximately $255,000 to build a Habitat home, not including labor, in Hampden County.

There are a variety of sponsorship levels available, including individual opportunities, team options, and sponsor packages. Individual fundraisers and teams will have access to an easy-to-use, secure, online donation platform that can be shared with family, friends, acquaintances, and colleagues.

No experience is necessary. All tools and materials are supplied on a build site. All are welcome, even men, and expert instruction is provided. Every dollar raised will support local projects and affordable housing within Hampden County.

For more information, contact Olga Callirgos, Homeowner Programs coordinator, at [email protected] or (413) 739-5503, ext. 1003.

Graduate Women in Business to Host Event Celebrating Women on May 10

By
Daily News

AMHERST — Graduate Women in Business, in collaboration with the UMass Fine Arts Center, will present “The Journey,” a charity gala that celebrates the talent, transitions, and triumphs of women, on Saturday, May 10 at the UMass Campus Center Auditorium.

The evening will be filled with music, dance, an auction benefiting Girls Inc. of the Valley and the Care Center in Holyoke, and thought-provoking panel discussions with influential women who have made significant impacts in their fields, as well as a motivating, empowering keynote address.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For details, contact Melisha Williams at [email protected] or [email protected].

Big Brothers Big Sisters Announces Bowl for Kids’ Sake Returning to Three Counties

By
Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — The youth empowerment nonprofit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western Massachusetts (BBBSWM) invites the public to help fund programs that support kids in Berkshire, Franklin, and Hampden counties through the annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake (BFKS) fundraiser.

“BFKS is the signature fundraiser for BBBSWM, so we’re thrilled to bring it to Berkshire County for the first time,” said Chris Thompson, chief growth officer of BBBSWM. “We’ve been working closely with local businesses and organizations to expand our programs in the region. Bringing this event to Pittsfield is a great way to celebrate and thank our new partners.”

BBBSWM CEO David Beturne added that “this event is also about reminding people about the work we do. We hope people will share the positive impact mentorship has on kids and the role that BBBSWM plays in supporting these relationships. Whether you’ve volunteered or been a child in one of our programs yourself, we want to hear about how this work has helped you or someone you love.”

Each of the three events will run from 10 a.m. to noon on the following Saturdays: April 19 K&M Bowling in Pittsfield, April 26 at Shaker Bowl in East Longmeadow, and May 3 at French King Bowling in Erving.

Those interested in supporting BBBSWM’s mission can click here to register their team and get tips on how to engage their own networks to join in supporting their bowling team.

BBBS creates connections between children (‘littles’) with qualified and vetted mentors (‘bigs’) in the community to create fulfilling relationships. BBBS monitors all matches to ensure that safety standards are upheld and the relationship is positive and empowering for the children involved.

Country Bank Celebrates 175 Years

By
Daily News

WARE — Country Bank is marking a milestone of 175 years of service to its communities. Since its founding in 1850, the bank has grown from a small local institution into a regional financial leader.

“Perhaps ‘thank you’ is the most fitting sentiment we can express,” said Mary McGovern, president and CEO of Country Bank. “Each year has contributed to shaping who we are today, and as I reflect on our legacy, I feel immense pride. For 175 years, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to trust, service, and innovation supporting individuals, businesses, and helping to build stronger communities. This achievement is truly a shared success, and we are deeply grateful to all who have placed their trust in us and have been a part of our journey.”

To commemorate this milestone, Country Bank is launching an anniversary celebration to give back to the communities that have contributed to its success. The campaign will include 175 gifts to community members and initiatives designed to champion local businesses and nonprofits throughout the region.

The campaign will also highlight inspiring customer stories, showcase the bank’s community contributions, and reaffirm its commitment to excellence. Country Bank invites everyone to join the celebration, share their experiences, and participate in unique giveaways and community events throughout the year, ensuring that this milestone is shared with those who have made it possible.

“As the first female president and CEO of Country Bank, I am honored to lead this celebration of our rich history and enduring commitment to our communities,” McGovern said. “Our legacy of service and innovation has defined us for nearly two centuries, and that same commitment will continue to guide us as we evolve, expand, and enhance the customer experience.”

BusinessTalk with Girls Inc. Executive Director Suzanne Parker

By
Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest has launched a new podcast series, BusinessTalk. Each episode will feature in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders, providing thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachuetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running during these challenging times.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 229: March 3, 2025

Editor Joe Bednar talks to Girls Inc. Executive Director Suzanne Parker

Suzanne Parker
The mission of Girls Inc. is to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. But Girls Inc. of the Valley has certainly displayed those characteristics in other ways, including building out and opening a new, dynamic headquarters two years ago and expanding upon programs that immerse girls in STEM studies, career preparation, skills to overcome challenges and achieve mental wellness, and much more. On the next episode of BusinessTalk, Executive Director Suzanne Parker talks with BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar about how the organization’s focus and programming continue to evolve in the service of helping girls succeed and thrive in myriad ways. It’s must listening, so tune into BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest.

Also Available On

Elizabeth Román Promoted to Executive Editor at NEPM News

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Elizabeth Román has been promoted to executive editor for NEPM News. Román joined New England Public Media (NEPM) as managing editor in 2022 after reporting for nearly two decades at the Republican. In her new role, she will oversee NEPM’s award-winning local newsroom, ascertaining community needs, setting editorial priorities, and supervising journalists, local program hosts, freelancers, and interns.

“Elizabeth is a natural leader whose smarts, dedication, and good humor inspire everyone she meets,” said Matt Abramovitz, NEPM president. “She’s got great news judgment and the perspective that comes from growing up and pursuing a career in journalism right here in our region.”

Sam Hudzik, who has led the NEPM newsroom for over a decade, will leave NEPM and the world of public media for a position in housing law in March. As executive editor for news, Román will assume oversight of the newsroom, reporting to NEPM’s vice president for content and audience strategy.

“Elizabeth’s instincts, talent, and hard work have helped power this newsroom since the moment she arrived,” Hudzik said. “I could not be more thrilled she was picked to lead this amazing group of reporters and hosts. As her friend, I’m proud. As an NEPM listener, I’m excited.”

Abramovitz said he is confident in Román’s leadership of the NEPM newsroom. “When trustworthy and balanced information about our community is more vital than ever and can’t be taken for granted, we are so lucky to have Elizabeth take the reins from Sam. We could not have a better person leading us forward at this time.”

Román is a graduate of Holyoke Community College and UMass Amherst. In recent years, she has also edited El Pueblo Latino, co-founded Colectivo de Medios Latinos, and appeared as a panelist on NEPM’s “The Fabulous 413” and “The Rundown with Carrie Saldo.”

“Being a part of the NEPM newsroom has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life,” she said. “I’m thankful to all of the editors, fellow reporters, and newsroom leaders throughout my career, especially Sam, who have helped me get to this point. I believe in our mission of delivering news that is not only impactful and informative, but that also makes listeners curious about the important things happening in Western Massachusetts every day. I am a proud Springfield native and Puerto Rican woman who will continue to work with our talented news team to deliver stories that include underrepresented voices in our community.”

MacArthur Fellow, Pulitzer Prize Finalist Kelly Link to Visit MCLA

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — The Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) English & Philosophy Department will host author Kelly Link as the spring 2025 visiting writer. Link will present “An Evening with Kelly Link” on Thursday, March 13 at 6 p.m. in the Center for Science & Innovation Atrium. This event is free and open to the public.

A MacArthur fellow and Pulitzer Prize finalist, Link is the author of numerous celebrated short-fiction collections, including Stranger Things Happen, Magic for Beginners, Pretty Monsters, Get in Trouble, and White Cat, Black Dog. Her debut novel, The Book of Love, was published last year to critical acclaim.

In addition to her writing, Link is an editor of multiple anthologies, including The Year’s Best Fantasy and Horror series, as well as the young adult collections Steampunk! and Monstrous Affections. She is the co-founder of Small Beer Press, co-editor of the occasional zine Lady Churchill’s Rosebud Wristlet, and owner of Book Moon, an independent bookshop in Easthampton, Mass.

General Cleaners of Holyoke Completes Coat Drive with Delivery to Salvation Army

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE­ — General Cleaners of Holyoke announced the culmination of its New Year coat drive with the delivery of coats to the Salvation Army in Holyoke on Feb. 28. This initiative has been a heartfelt effort to support those in need during the winter months, with contributions from the community and local partners making it a resounding success.

The drive included a collection event during the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce’s Power Hour on Feb. 15. Attendees brought gently used coats as their admission, adding to the impactful donations. Additionally, Access Care Partners (formerly WestMass ElderCare) played a key role by collecting coats at its Mill Road location. All coats collected during the drive have been professionally cleaned by General Cleaners of Holyoke, ensuring they are ready to provide warmth and comfort to those who need them.

“This coat drive has been a touching example of what we can achieve together as a community,” said Heather Burbeck-Rodriguez, co-owner of General Cleaners of Holyoke. “We’re so grateful for everyone who participated, from individual donors to organizations like Access Care Partners and the Greater Holyoke Chamber. Watching these coats move from donation to delivery is a reminder of the kindness and care that defines Holyoke.”