As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, things heat up at the Community Center! 

This time each year, Prevention & Human Services, Recreation, and Senior Center staff team up with volunteers and community partners to host Ashland’s annual Thanksgiving Meal Program and Holiday Program.

Ashland’s Thanksgiving Meal Program provides families supported by the Food Pantry or the Department Prevention & Human Services with a complete Thanksgiving meal of turkey, vegetables, other side dishes, and a dessert. Last year the Thanksgiving Meal Program provided more than 100 meals for Ashland families.  

This program would not be successful without the helping hands of many community partners. The Ashland Emergency Fund purchases Thanksgiving groceries from Shaw’s, and student groups and other local organizations hold food drives for supplementary items. On the day of the Thanksgiving Meal Program, the Department of Public Works picks up the Thanksgiving items and brings them to the Community Center where town staff, committee members, and community volunteers come together to help distribute the meals. ¬

The following week launches the Ashland Holiday Program. The Holiday Program is an opportunity for Ashland families to experience the magic of the holidays and for donors to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families. Participant families have the opportunity to share their children’s holiday wishes by creating a wish list and then anonymously paired with program donors who use the wish list to assist with purchasing the holiday gifts. Individuals who would like to support the Holiday Program in other ways may donate gift cards or ‘filler gifts.’ Volunteer support, whether through donating time or holiday gifts are all necessary in making the Holiday Program a success. Together we can ensure that every participating child receives gifts and elevate the holiday season by fostering a sense of community and connection.

If you are interested in sponsoring a child or donating gifts to the Holiday Program please email the Department of Prevention & Human Services at [email protected].

If you are an Ashland resident seeking assistance from the Food Pantry for the first time, please call 508-532-7949 or email [email protected] to complete an intake form.