ASHFIELD — Hilltown Churches Food Pantry Director Pat Thayer distributed a necessity other than food at the biweekly Tuesday food distribution this week.
Having received a donation of $500 worth of biodegradable feminine hygiene products from 2XChromosome, a Boston-based company founded by Franklin County native Sarah Elizabeth “Betsey” Silvester, Thayer was able to meet another need of clients that rely on the Hilltown Churches Food Pantry, which operates out of the First Congregational Church of Ashfield. Those who drove up to the church parking lot to get groceries were invited to take what they needed.
The brand of tampons, pads, liners and cleansing wipes has as strong tie to the area, with Silvester having previously lived in Shelburne Falls, Ashfield and Heath.
“I grew up in Ashfield, and Sanderson Academy was the first school I attended, so it’s especially meaningful to me to donate period products to the Hilltown Churches Food Pantry in Ashfield,” Silvester said. “It provides a vital service in the community, especially now when our economy has been so impacted by the pandemic. Making quality period products available for free is essential, as personal hygiene is a necessity.”
The Hilltown Churches Food Pantry’s next distribution will be Tuesday, June 1.
Reach Paul Franz at 413-772-0261, ext. 266 or pfranz@recorder.com.
