Food assistance program
Launched during some of the darkest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Nourishing programs began as an effort to connect residents facing food insecurity with locally prepared meals — while directing critical dollars to independent restaurants. Over the past five years in Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, and Needham, the program has delivered more than 20,000 meals from more than 50 independent restaurants, working with local food pantries and community organizations to distribute meals where they are most needed.
Building on that impact, Nourishing Newton and Nourishing Wellesley continue in Winter/Spring 2026, supported by state grant funding secured by Senator Cindy Creem. Funds will purchase over 4,000 meals from independently owned restaurants in each community be distributed through local food pantries and community organizations with the help the Rotary Club of Newton and Town of Wellesley volunteers.
“I am thrilled our food assistance program will continue to operate and provide much needed relief to local households and the restaurant community in Newton and Wellesley,” said Senator Cindy Creem. “This program not only lifts up our restaurants during this tremendously difficult period, but also provides critical food assistance to those in need.”
