On November 12, 2025, volunteers at Sholan Farms in Leominster, Massachusetts, came together to pack surplus apples for distribution to local food pantries and nonprofit organizations. This initiative is part of an effort to support community members in need during the Thanksgiving season.
More than two dozen dedicated volunteers gathered at the farm, packaging an impressive total of 80 bushels of apples, weighing approximately 3,200 pounds. These apples were divided into over 900 bags, which will provide nourishment to families across the area.
Community Spirit Shines Through Generosity
Joanne DiNardo, President of the Friends of Sholan Farms, reflected on the farm’s history, noting that there have only been three years in its 24-year existence when they could not donate apples due to insufficient crop yields. “This year we ended the season with excess apples and were able to give back to the community,” she stated.
The apples were distributed to several local entities, including Our Lady of the Lake, St. Anna, St. Leo, and the Leominster United Methodist Church. Additionally, organizations such as Ginny’s Helping Hand and the Leominster Veterans Center also benefited from this generous donation.
Ginny’s Helping Hand, a local nonprofit, expressed their gratitude for the inclusion of Sholan Farms apples in the Thanksgiving baskets they prepared. Brandon Robbins, Executive Director of Ginny’s Helping Hand, noted an increase in requests for assistance this year, attributing it to rising grocery costs and food insecurity. “Sholan Farms’ donation of over 200 bags of apples brings something truly special to our Holiday Food Baskets of Hope,” Robbins remarked.
Celebrating Community Contributions
In addition to the apples, Ginny’s Helping Hand received 5,440 pounds of nonperishable food through a drive organized at Fall Brook Elementary School. Robbins emphasized the impact of community involvement, saying, “Your kindness shows what happens when a community comes together — big hearts, helping hands, and kids leading the way.” This sentiment was echoed on social media, highlighting the contributions of local students and staff.
DiNardo also acknowledged the commitment of those who volunteered their time at Sholan Farms. She expressed her appreciation for the individuals who braved the cold to assist in this effort. “What an amazing team effort,” she noted, adding that the packing began at 10 a.m. and concluded by 1 p.m.
With the support of orchard managers John Brannin and Mike Meehan, as well as other community volunteers, Sholan Farms successfully harvested the crop and prepared it for distribution. DiNardo emphasized the importance of community farms, stating, “This is what a community farm is all about. We take pride in all that we do and strive to be an important resource to the community.”
The initiative at Sholan Farms not only highlights the abundance of local produce but also showcases the power of community collaboration in supporting those in need, especially during the holiday season.
