HSF staging

Rural Realities: Advancing Health Equity in Western MA's Rural Communities
2025-11-14 12:00 - 13:15 (America/New_York)
Join us for a free webinar exploring the unique challenges and strengths of rural communities across Western Massachusetts, featuring State Senator Jo Comerford, Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester district, Laura Kittross, Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, and Phoebe Walker, Franklin Regional Council of Governments.

Mobile Food Bank Distribution Schedule
2025-11-15 08:00 - 17:00
Our Mobile Food Bank delivers a truck full of free fresh and non-perishable groceries from our warehouse directly to a community site for immediate distribution to residents. There are no eligibility requirements to receive food from our Mobile Food Bank. Anyone can attend.
Call our Mobile Food Bank staff at 413-419-0079 with questions and for up-to-date information on closures.

Mobile Food Bank Schedule

Holiday Gift Drive
2025-11-15 08:00 - 17:00
Amherst Survival Center holiday gift drive

Amherst Survival Center is accepting NEW children’s books, games, toys, and winter accessories for ALL ages from now until December 31st. Households with children are welcome to shop during their pantry visit throughout the month of December. Have any questions? Please reach out to Miranda.

Community Care Package Drive
2025-11-17 08:00 - 17:00
Each year, our Community Care Package Drive reminds us what kindness looks like in action. Last year, your generosity helped us bring comfort and essentials to hundreds of families across our communities.

We’re doing it again, and we need your help to keep it going.

If you’re able to donate, organize a collection, or spread the word, you’ll help us reach even more families who count on our support.

Please share this with your friends, families, workplaces, and any platforms where it can make a difference. Every box, every share, every small act matters.

Let’s move hope forward. Thank you for your help.

Girl Scout Food Drive in Honor of Juliette Gordon Low
2025-11-18 08:00 - 16:00
Collect in your town for your local pantry or drop off non-perishable items to the Girl Scout Leadership Center at 301 Kelly Way, Holyoke.
See flyer for most needed items.

Volunteers in the Valley
2025-11-18 10:00 - 11:00

November Lunch & Learn 2025: Introducing Mentor Circles!
2025-11-18 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
Lunch & Learn Sessions meet the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 12-1pm. This is a time for folks to tune in while eating lunch. Join us to learn more about best practices, stay connected, and keep up with recent research, happenings, and tools. We welcome you as often as you can join us!
November 2025
Join us to discuss and give your input on a new series of workshops from Mass Mentoring Partnership. Mentor Circles will run every third Thursday evening of most months (dates will be adjusted if holidays interfere.) Mentor Circles are virtual, off-hours opportunities for YOUR PROGRAMS’ MENTORS to connect with other mentors, build knowledge, and practice skills related to being the best mentor you can be. Topics will vary. You are encouraged to share the Mentor Circles registration links with your mentors. Come to this Lunch and Learn to give some feedback and find out more!

Gandara Center Career Expo
2025-11-18 16:00 - 19:00
Explore Job opportunities and learn more about the agency’s work.
come in and talk to a Director / Manager regarding work life balance
day to day responsibilities for new and current employees.

Bombyx Brass Collective
2025-11-18 19:00 - 21:00
Bombyx Brass Collective
Pops Across the Pond

The Bombyx Brass Collective, a 35-piece semi-professional brass choir led by Music Director Juli Sansoucy, will present their first program of the season “Pops Across The Pond” twice in November. The first performance will be on Sunday, November 16, at 3 pm at the United Methodist Church in South Hadley. The concert will be repeated on Tuesday, November 18, at 7 pm at the Bombyx Center for Arts & Equity. Both concerts will benefit the Food Bank of Western Mass, with donations of any amount gratefully accepted here or at the door.
The program will feature a variety of popular and classical music, primarily by British composers, including Delius, Holst, Byrd, Walton, Boysen, and Zimmer/Fernie and will be sure to delight everyone who attends.
The Food Bank of Western Mass is one of the leading advocates in the region addressing food insecurity, tirelessly working to provide food to people when and where they need it, and to develop solutions to the drivers of hunger in our communities. Their slogan is “Together, We End Hunger”. Public Engagement Manager Cheyenne Burnham stated, “Over 123,000 people a month (on average) rely on our region’s network of food pantries and that number will continue to rise as funding for vital programs like SNAP get cut. The Food Bank is incredibly grateful to the members of our community who are dedicated to making sure people have access to nutritious food. There is an important place for joy within fundraising efforts and events like these bring people together for a common purpose rooted in care and compassion.” To learn more about the Food Bank of Western Mass, visit https://www.foodbankwma.org/.
Admission to all Bombyx Brass performances is free of charge, but donations are always gratefully accepted. All proceeds support future programming and advocacy in the community. In addition to monetary contributions, donations of non-expired dry goods will be accepted at the door.

MHA 3rd Annual Food Drive
2025-11-19 08:00 - 17:00
At MHA, we believe in the power of community support. This November, we’re hosting our 3rd annual food drive to provide essential nourishment for our participants. Your contributions can make a real difference in their lives! When: November 10 – November 24 Where: Drop-off at MHA’s Main Office at 350 Memorial Drive, Chicopee, MAWhat to Donate:– Non-perishable food items (canned goods, pasta, rice)– Thanksgiving food items (non-perishable stuffing, mashed potatoes)Every little bit helps! Let’s come together to ensure everyone has access to the food and resources they need.

Food and Wellness Fair
2025-11-20 08:00 - 12:00

In-Service Training - Supporting Grandparents Raising Grandchildren in Your Community
2025-11-20 10:00 - 11:15 | Online via Zoom
The Commission on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren will offer an overview on kinship families and the various caregiving dynamics we see in our communities and lead a discussion that will allow attendees to consider the diverse perspectives and needs of caregivers from the unique perspective of grandparents and other relatives. This training will also dive into the resources and supports available to assist you in better serving these community members!
Presented by: Colleen Pritoni, Director of The Commission on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Learning Outcomes:
In this training, staff will be able to:
Recognize the prevalence of substance use disorder in older adults
Name two risk factors for the development of substance use disorder in older adults
Understand the differences in presentation of withdrawal in older adults
Explore evidence-based approaches for treatment in older adults with substance use disorder

Paninis for Our Pantry
2025-11-20 11:30 - 13:30
We’re excited to invite you to a meaningful lunch on Thursday, November 20th, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. This month’s Guest Chef is our own Shannon M. Rudder, President & CEO of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services, serving her mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Panini! Of course, all other menu items will be available too.

For each order placed during lunch, LugNutz will contribute **$2** to MLKFS’ Emergency Food Pantry. With a staggering increase in demand—over 30%—and so much uncertainty surrounding food security, our pantry is committed to providing essential nourishment and heartfelt support. Every dollar of support helps maintain the dignity of those we serve
.

Come savor delicious food while making a positive impact! We look forward to seeing you there.

Much gratitude for the Marcotte Ford team for hosting us and for their continued support of our mission.

BHMA Jazz Ensemble
2025-11-20 16:00 - 19:00
Jazz is in the air! Catch the Jazz Ensemble this November at these events coming up!

Berkshire Mini March
2025-11-22 09:30 - 14:00
Saturday, November 22, 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Hot Plate Brewing Co., 1 School St, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Join Monte Belmonte and Food Bank supporters in downtown Pittsfield for the Berkshire Mini-March, a 3-mile walk beginning and ending at Hot Plate Brewing. Stay at Hot Plate from 12 – 2 p.m. for an after-party with beverages, lunch, and live music.
Along the way, participants will visit local Food Bank member pantries, including Mercado De Vida and the Berkshire Dream Center. The final stop is the Pittsfield Community Pantry, where marchers can choose to roll up their sleeves and volunteer by assembling Thanksgiving Angels packages for local families.
The Berkshire Mini-March is part of the 16th Annual March for the Food Bank, a 42-mile journey from Springfield to Greenfield happening over two days on Monday, November 24th and Tuesday, November 25th that raises critical funds to provide nourishing food to individuals across all four counties. With a goal of $650,000, we invite you to join us in Pittsfield and take steps to end hunger in Western Massachusetts.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day
2025-11-22 10:00 - 13:00
This event is free and is for Survivors of Suicide Loss only.
Each year, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) supports hundreds of large and small Survivor Day events around the world, in which suicide loss survivors come together to find connection, understanding and hope through their shared experience.
We invite you to join us in Springfield, MA for a meaningful day filled with breakout groups, lunch, engaging activities, and a powerful AFSP-produced documentary that highlights themes of growth, resilience, and connection.
*Parking and the entrance are located behind the building. For GPS directions, use 36 Buckingham Street, Springfield, MA
Springfield Event Schedule:
• 10:00am – 10:15am: Check-in• 10:15am – 10:20am: Welcome & Opening Remarks• 10:20am – 10:50am: AFSP Documentary Screening• 11:00am – 12:15pm: Breakout Sessions• 12:15pm – 12:55pm: Lunch• 12:55pm – 1 :00pm: Poem Reading & Closing Remarks

Panel Discussion on Why HBCUs Matter
2025-11-22 11:00 - 14:00
This engaging event will feature a lineup of HBCU graduates sharing their unique experiences and insights about attending HBCU’s.

Event Details:
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Location: Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services Community Center, 3 Rutland Street, Springfield, MA 01109 – FREE to attend

In addition to the personal stories from our panelists, we will discuss the 2026 HBCU Tour itinerary and upcoming workshops designed to empower and inform prospective students.

This is a great opportunity to learn more about the rich history and vibrant culture of HBCUs, and how they can shape your educational journey.

Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, don’t miss this chance to connect and engage with our community. We look forward to seeing you there!

Fall Season Celebratory 5K
2025-11-23 10:30 - 17:00
5K Celebration
Confidence through
Accomplishment

Each season comes to an end with a celebratory 5K. This closing event gives program participants of all abilities a tangible sense of accomplishment. Crossing the finish line instills confidence through completion and is a joyful moment program participants always remember! Everyone in our program receives a commemorative medal to celebrate this incredible achievement.

16th Annual March for the Food Bank
2025-11-24 06:00 - 17:00
Every year the Food Bank and Monte Belmonte lead a march against hunger for 43-miles from Springfield to Greenfield. Monte, Congressman Jim McGovern, Food Bank Executive Director Andrew Morehouse, and marchers fundraise to support the mission of the Food Bank and spread awareness about how hunger effects people throughout the region.
For the 16th Annual March for the Food Bank, our goal is to raise $650,000 – the equivalent of 1,300,000 meals!

The community is encouraged to make donations by phone or online while Monte and the marchers make their way across three counties. Both WRSI – The River and New England Public Media will be airing special programming about food insecurity and hunger leading up to and during the days of the March.
Can’t make it out to the March? You can also support our efforts by donating to the March or purchasing a Monte’s Mixed Bag. Each of the 100 exclusive bags is filled with a unique combination of goodies and gift cards, and will become available at State Street Market and Coopers Corner October 28th for a donation of $100.

DYS Holiday Tree Jubilee
2025-11-25 17:00 - 20:00

Lux Deluxe: A Benefit for Food Bank of Western MA
2025-11-28 18:00 - 22:00
LuxDeluxeat The Iron HorseFriday, November 28th
Pre-Show Bar/Event Queue: 5:00pmEvent Doors: 6:00pmShow: 7:00pm
Tickets Starting At: $21.60includes all fees
Come out for a night of rock & roll and support your neighbors while you’re at it. A year after releasing their self-titled album, Northampton rockers LuxDeluxe are teaming up with the Food Bank of Western Mass to throw a benefit show that helps feed the members of our community that need it, especially during the holiday season.
50% of the show’s ticket profits will go to the food bank. If you are able, bring a nonperishable food item to donate! Money donations (cash or digital) will also be accepted the day of!
The first thing you’ll notice about LuxDeluxe is the singer, Ned King. He might be high-kicking, rolling on the floor, or squeezed up alongside drummer Jake Edwards with his own set of sticks in hand. Bassist Jacob Rosazza and rhythm guitarist Jake Manzi lean into their mics as Ned does, and 3-part Eagles-esque harmonies roll out. Then the energy shifts to stage left, where lead guitarist Caleb Rosazza has started soloing, and you know you’re in for a good night.
LuxDeluxe began in a poster-plastered basement in Northampton, Massachusetts in 2009. Three young cousins and two friends got together to play rock & roll, surrounded by stacks of records that included NRBQ, JJ Cale, and Tom Petty. The band rapidly gained recognition for their high-octane shows that left audiences sweaty and earned them the opportunity to share stages with Deer Tick, White Denim, Reptar, Lake Street Dive, Rubblebucket, J Mascis, NRBQ, and Big Al Anderson.
After a decade of writing, recording, and touring, a founding member of the band moved to LA to pursue film work. The pandemic closely followed. Like many bands during the events of 2020, LuxDeluxe went through a quiet period, during which they slowly built up a recording studio in an old warehouse building, and amassed a hoard of vintage guitars, keyboards, and amps. As guitarist Caleb Rosazza built up his inventory of recording gear, the rest of the band dug into honing their own skills, playing with other Western Mass bands, co-writing, and recording for other projects.
In 2022, the band re-convened to write and record over 100 songs, working and re-working to find their sound and identity again. And when they found themselves on stage for 2 sold-out New Year’s shows with NRBQ in 2023, something fell into place.
Their first new music in 7 years will be released in Fall 2024. This will be the band’s 6th release and 4th full-length album in the 15 years they have been together. The joy is still there. Evidence of time passing is, too. These aren’t the songs of kids barely out of high school any more. These songs bind the past to the present: the music may have evolved, but the heart and guts that make a LuxDeluxe record what it is shine through.

Springfield Public Forum: Fareed Zakaria
2025-12-01 18:00 - 20:00
We’ll be back to no tickets required when we welcome CNN’s Fareed Zakaria to Springfield Symphony Hall on a NEW DATE- 12/1!
The CNN host and best-selling author will discuss the revolutions―past and present―that define the polarized and unstable age in which we live.
Populist rage, ideological fracture, economic and technological shocks, war, and an international system studded with catastrophic risk―the early decades of the twenty-first century may be the most revolutionary period in modern history. But it is not the first. Humans have lived, and thrived, through more than one great realignment.
Zakaria will discuss four present-day revolutions: globalization, technology, identity, and geopolitics. As we find ourselves at the nexus of these seismic revolutions, we can easily imagine a dark future. But Zakaria will show that pessimism is premature.

WIC Toy & Diaper Drive
2025-12-03 08:00 - 17:00
WIC Toy & Diaper Drive
Our WIC program is conducting a toy and diaper drive this season to benefit Springfield North WIC infants and children. We are accepting toys through December 16th!
You can drop off items here:
East Forest Park Library
136 Surrey Rd, Springfield
West Springfield Town Hall
26 Central St
Or drop off items at our 3 WIC sites:
1985 Main St, Springfield
281 Cottage St, Springfield
425 Union St., Level D, West Springfield

Basics of Navigating the Internet
2025-12-05 13:00 - 17:00
NEW! Our Assistive Technology team is providing free trainings and refreshers for older adults (65+) on basic technology every first friday of the month.

Our first session in the series will be over Internet Basics held at our admin office on December 5th from 1pm – 3pm.

There is a limit of 10 individuals per session but more sessions can be arranged for larger groups.

Registration is required. Please contact us at 413 – 442 – 1562 ext. 112 or email scortis@ucpwma.org to reserve your spot or inquire more.

Future sessions in the series will include
– Email Basics
– Cybersecurity Basics
– Android Mobile Devices Basics
– iOS Mobile Devices Basics

One-on-one office hours coming soon!

Please share this with anyone that might benefit from these classes! Technology is for everyone!

Teddy Bear Toss
2025-12-05 17:40 - 18:40
Anna Maria College will be hosting a toy drive at their girl’s ice hockey game on December 5th.
All toys donated will be given to Gandara’s ICC program to distribute to families in need.

Carol Rivest Memorial Foundation Fundraiser
2025-12-06 16:00 - 20:00
The Carol Rivest Memorial Foundation is embracing the holiday spirit and supporting survivors with their Holiday Fundraiser. Donations assist area domestic violence agencies, including Alianza.

Hot Chocolate Run
2025-12-07 08:00 - 12:00
Sign up to run, walk, or volunteer on December 7th! Then, share your fundraising page with family and friends to create year-round support for survivors of domestic violence.

Join us for a great time for a great cause!

Woodwind Ensemble
2025-12-07 10:00 - 11:15
December 7th: BHMA Woodwind Ensemble at St. Paul’s Unitarian Universalist Church in Palmer 10:00-11:15am.

Shop Small Give Big
2025-12-08 16:40 - 19:30
Not sure what to gift? Is it difficult to find local products to gift this holiday season?
We’ve got your solution! Download Your FREE holiday gift guide by Feel Good Shop Local and get inspired with all the amazing locally made and curated gift ideas for loved ones, friends, coworkers and more!

Use code EMWA10 at checkout and 10% donation comes to Each Moment We’re Alive

Shop ONLINE or Join IN PERSON
for the Annual Holiday SIP & SHOP
Monday, December 8 4:40 – 7:30 PM
Mercedes-Benz of Springfield

CHD Cancer House of Hope Luminaria
2025-12-08 17:00 - 19:00
This holiday season, we invite you to join us for a special evening of remembrance, celebration, and hope, as we honor loved ones whose lives have been touched by cancer—whether they are being remembered, currently in treatment, or in remission and recovery.
Join us on December 8 as 1,000 luminaries are lit in their honor, creating a beautiful, glowing tribute that reflects the love, strength, and resilience of our community.
Luminaria will be open to the public and on display from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Event parking is available at the Senior Center located at 128 Park Street, West Springfield.
December 8, 2025

5:00 p.m. – Lighting Ceremony
West Springfield Town Common

Be part of this meaningful tradition and help shine a light for those affected by cancer.
*Inclement weather date will be December 9.
Buy Your Luminaries
Luminaries can be purchased with a personalized dedication to your loved one(s) for $10. Click here to purchase luminaries.

The deadline to purchase luminaries online is Thursday, December 4 at midnight.
Click here to download the Luminary Order Form. The deadline for sending us the order form and check is Friday, December 5.
You will be able to purchase luminaries on the day of the event.

By participating on December 8, you are making a significant impact in the lives of people right here in our community receive free cancer support services including counseling, support groups, relaxation, and wellness therapies, including oncology-certified massage, Reiki, yoga, art therapy, a wig boutique, and post-mastectomy bra fittings – all from a place where they are offered friendship, connection, and support, at no cost to them.
