CHICOPEE — After several months defined by benefit cuts, a government shutdown, delayed SNAP payments, and rising need in every corner of Western Mass., the 16th annual March for the Food Bank on Nov. 24-25 delivered a striking result: more than $830,000 raised after two days and more than 43 miles on foot.

The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts set an ambitious $650,000 goal this year. The community didn’t just meet it; they blew past it. And because every dollar helps create the equivalent of two nutritious meals, this year’s March will provide more than 1.5 million meals to families, elders, and children in all four counties.

“This outpouring of generosity is a testament to the strength and spirit of this region,” said Andrew Morehouse, executive director of the Food Bank. “When the stakes are highest, Western Massachusetts rallies together.”

This year’s march was full of milestones. It welcomed the largest group of marchers in event history, achieved the highest fundraising total ever, and launched the region’s first Berkshire Mini-March in Pittsfield, drawing crowds, energy, and enthusiasm.

The Food Bank’s thanks radio personality and march founder Monte Belmonte, who walked every mile, kept spirits high on the road and on the airwaves, and honored the icons of public broadcasting through his tributes to Bob Ross, Bert and Ernie, and Mr. Rogers. The Food Bank also extends gratitude to U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern and Gov. Maura Healey, whose leadership and commitment to ending hunger continue to strengthen the region’s food assistance network.

“This march proves what’s possible when a community refuses to look away from hunger,” said Jillian Morgan, director of Development at the Food Bank. “The community showed up with incredible spirit and resolve to make a difference. They fundraised, marched, matched donations, and cheered us on. That collective power is how change happens.”

With momentum at its peak, the Food Bank has raised its march goal to $1 million and will continue accepting donations through Dec. 31. Donations to the March for the Food Bank can be made by visiting www.marchforthefoodbank.org.

“If this year’s march has shown us anything, it’s that Western Massachusetts never backs down from a challenge,” Morehouse said.

CHICOPEE — The 14th annual March for the Food Bank took place on Nov. 20-21 and is very close to reaching its targeted fundraising goal of $500,000. At the march’s end, it had raised $466,069.

Donations for the march will be accepted through the end of December. Supporters are encouraged to make an online contribution anytime at marchforthefoodbank.org.

The 43-mile, two-day trek from Springfield to Greenfield was led once again by New England Public Media’s Monte Belmonte. Joining him was U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern, Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Executive Director Andrew Morehouse and Development Director Jillian Morgan, and several state and local legislators, including Gov. Maura Healey. In her comments to reporters, Healy stressed that hunger is a real issue in Massachusetts for young and old alike and credited the Food Bank and its partners and supporters for all the work being done to end hunger in Western Mass.

“We are deeply touched by the outpouring of support for the march, which has brought us incredibly close to our $500,000 goal,” Morgan said. “The power of community, reflected in the kindness of those who marched as fundraisers, the individuals and businesses that generously contributed to the campaign, along with the support of so many state and local government officials, fills our hearts with gratitude.”

As the campaign approaches its goal, Morgan is hoping the community will join in the final push to make an even greater impact. Reaching the goal of raising $500,000 will provide the equivalent of 1,500,000 meals across the region.