As an elementary teacher, I have had the privilege of teaching in schools across the state, in the Boston Metro area as well as in Western MA, where I was born and raised. I have witnessed first-hand the effects of food insecurity on families in some of those school communities, and the impact on the day-to-day school life of some of my students. No kid should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. This problem is a heartbreaking one to witness, especially given the fact that our country has the resources to solve it.
This year will be my fourth year teaching a Food Insecurity unit with my sixth grade class. Each year that I have taught the unit, I have brought my students on a portion of Monte's March as a part of that unit, with the hope that the experience would deepen their understanding of the issue while also bringing more attention to this cause. This year, I have decided to deepen my own commitment to this critical issue by signing up as an official marcher, from start to finish. Over the course of two days, November 25 & 26, I will walk with Monte's March from Springfield to Greenfield, helping to raise money and awareness.
We have had, as a class, so many conversations already this year around the importance of character, of actions speaking louder than words, and of being a part of the change we wish to see in the world around us. I think that my participation in this event, and the stories that I will then be able to share with my students (and others), will send a powerful message. What better way to model commitment to community and problem-solving than to participate in such a worthy, though physically demanding, endeavor?
I hope that many of you will find it in your heart to donate to my Monte's March fundraising page. The March intends to bring awareness to this critical issue and to raise funds for The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Every dollar donated will supply three meals to a neighbor in need.
I am so grateful for any support you can give.
Sincerely,
Andrea
For more info on Monte's March, visit: www.montesmarch.com
Monte's March
On November 25th & 26th, WRSI – The River’s Monte Belmonte will be leading his annual march against hunger through the Pioneer Valley during his Monte’s March event. For two days, Monte, Congressman Jim McGovern, and a number of their supporters will push a shopping cart 43 miles from Springfield to Greenfield to raise awareness and funds for food insecurity in our region. Supporters are encouraged to donate money to benefit The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Last year, the event raised more than $294,000.
You can march with Monte and Congressman McGovern by raising money for the event as an individual or as part of a team:
Individuals:
- A suggested fundraising minimum of $1,000 of more is encouraged to join Monte for either Monday or Tuesday of the walk (or a smaller portion).
- Marchers must be 18+ or accompanied by an adult.
- All Marchers are responsible for arranging their own transportation and pick-ups.
Create a Team:
- A suggested fundraising minimum of $1,000 or more per team is encouraged to join Monte for either Monday or Tuesday of the walk (or a smaller portion). Teams are defined as two or more people fundraising together.
- Teams are asked to please choose no more than one person to walk at a time. As Monte's March continues to grow, so does the number of people walking. These measures are to help ensure the safety of everyone involved.
- Marchers must be 18+ or accompanied by an adult.
- All Marchers are responsible for arranging their own transportation and pick-ups.
Can't march? Become a virtual marcher and raise funds online to support the march! There is no suggested fundraising minimum to be a virtual marcher.
Questions about this event? Contact Event Coordinator, Jennifer Therkelsen at [email protected]
Are you a teacher or administrator looking to get your school involved in Monte's March? Please contact Volunteer Coordinator, Amanda Reynolds at [email protected]
Since 1982, The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts has been feeding our neighbors in need and leading the community to end hunger. We distribute food to our member agencies in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire counties. These independent pantries, meal sites and shelters are on the front lines of emergency food assistance in our region, playing a crucial role helping individuals, families, seniors and children. Every $1 donated to The Food Bank can purchase 4 meals for a family who needs them most.