Interfaith Social Services Breaks Record at Annual Fundraiser

Interfaith Social Services, a multiservice center for South Shore families in need, today announced that more than $215,000 was raised at its seventeenth annual Feed the Hungry Gala, surpassing last year’s previous record setting amount by 64%. The fundraiser supports Interfaith Social Services’ numerous programs including one of Greater Boston’s largest emergency food programs, budget counseling and homelessness prevention services, a mental health counseling center, professional clothing for low-income job seekers and various other assistance programs.

This year’s Feed the Hungry Gala was held at Granite Links Golf Club in Quincy on Friday, December 5. The Gala was co-chaired by NECN’s Ally Donnelly and Greg Wallingford of New England Schooner, with Honorary Chair Governor Deval L. Patrick. Other attendees included Chef Paul Wahlberg, NECN anchor Latoyia Edward’s, NECN meteorologist Tim Kelley, Fox 25 Meteorologist Sarah Wroblewski, NECN reporters Alysha Palumbo, Political Reporter Alison King, Reporter Justin Michaels, Miss Massachusetts Polikseni Manxhari and Miss Teen Massachusetts Sophie Baird.

Founded in 1947, Interfaith Social Services is dedicated to improving life for South Shore families and individuals in need. The organization relies heavily on a team of volunteers, donors and community partners to deliver client-centered programs focused on hunger, mental health and emergency assistance. Last year, volunteers at Interfaith Social Services Food Pantry distributed over 750,000 pounds of food to families in need.

“Our annual Feed the Hungry Gala is an integral event for our organization, as it raises awareness for our cause and provides the finances necessary to support our community through the long winter months ahead,” said Rick Doane, executive director of Interfaith Social Services. “We were stunned by the amazing generosity that was displayed at this year’s Gala. With 16.5 percent of children living in food insecure homes in Massachusetts, every year thousands of families on the South Shore come to us for assistance. We are proud of the continued support we receive from our community which will make it possible for us to put food on the tables of more than 18,000 hunger local residents this year.”

The “Winter Wonderland” themed Gala featured carnival-style games, door prizes, live entertainment, and a variety of live and silent auction packages. Chefs from top Boston restaurants participated in a “Dine Around” tasting, including celebrity chef Paul Wahlberg of Alma Nove. Burtons Grill, Catering by Michael Aprea, The Quarry Restaurant and Lounge, and ORTA. Island Creek Oysters provided a raw bar for guests to enjoy. Montilio’s baked up miniature pastries for everyone, in addition to an assortment of locally brewed beer donated by Sam Adams. Marsh’s Wines & Spirits and Ste. Michelle Wine Estates generously sponsored a wine tasting for the Gala, and GrandTen Distilling showcased a specialty cocktail for guests as they arrived. The auction at this year’s Gala featured tickets to some of this season’s most popular theatrical productions and sporting events, as well as donations from many local businesses. Some of the evening’s most popular items included: dinner prepared in your home by Chef Paul Wahlberg, an exclusive Napa Valley getaway and JetBlue vacation packages.

During the Gala, an especially moving speech was made by an Interfaith Social Services food pantry client. A single parent of a two-year-old child, and a victim of domestic violence, Ronita was struggling to restart her life when she found Interfaith. Because of the organization, Ronita is now able to keep nutritious food on the table for her growing daughter as she works to find a full time job. She also spoke of the generous holiday programs Interfaith provides, from the Thanksgiving meal package her family received to Christmas gifts for her daughter.

According to a recent study, almost 12 percent of households in Massachusetts are considered food insecure, which includes more than 700,000 adults and children. This figure is 40% higher than it was before the recession, and almost 80% higher than it was at the beginning of the decade. Additionally, many local seniors and those living with disabilities also face uncertainty about food, as fixed incomes may not be able to keep up with the increased cost of living.

“What makes the Feed the Hungry Gala so successful is that it showcases the extensive services Interfaith provides to our community members in need,” said NECN’s Ally Donnelly, co-chair of the Feed the Hungry Gala and a Hingham resident. “The Gala introduces and inspires members of our community to become involved with this essential resource. Members of the Greater Boston community come together to enjoy a night out with their friends, all while raising money to support their neighbors on the South Shore.”

A record number of local businesses joined the list of event sponsors for the seventeenth annual Feed the Hungry Gala. The Arbella Insurance Foundation and Walmart were the presenting level sponsors. JetBlue Getaways, BMC HealthPlan, South Shore Living/Lighthouse Media, Granite Telecommunications and The State Street Corporation also topped the list of sponsors. Activist level sponsors include: Eliza Corporation, Elysé Fine Jewelers ~ Gemologist, MountainOne Bank, Neighborhood Health Plan, Quincy Medical Center, South Shore Bank and Stop & Shop.