NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — First Congregational Church's "Share the Love" campaign raised $5,550 that was donated to local food pantries and community services.

 

"Every little bit helps," Rich Wilson of the Berkshire Food Project said. "For the community to come together like this and think of us is a great thing."

 

Through the month of February, the congregation collected donations from the Northern Berkshire community. For every $100 received, the congregation donated $25. 

 

All proceeds were split evenly among the three recipient organizations: the Berkshire Food Project, Louison House, and the Al Nelson Friendship Center Food Pantry. 

 

"The money stays right here in North Adams in Northern Berkshire, which is great," missions member Julie Filkins said.

 

Last year, they raised $5,100. So this year they raised $450 more.

 

"It helps with everything," Dickilyn Mackinno of the Louison House said. "It has been a hard year for a lot of people."

 

"It is the same with the food pantry," Lois Daunis of the food pantry said. "We will be able to use the money to provide more food options for our friends who visit the pantry."