The $7.8 Million Mission: How Merrimack Valley Food Bank Is Fighting Back Against Federal Cuts And Hunger
As of December 22, 2025, the Merrimack Valley Food Bank (MVFB) stands at a critical juncture, balancing historic growth with unprecedented financial challenges. The organization, a crucial lifeline for thousands of families across 30 communities in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, is currently spearheading a massive $7.8 million capital campaign while simultaneously grappling with significant cuts to federal food programs.
This article provides an in-depth look at the food bank’s latest initiatives, the impact of recent policy changes, and the innovative programs—like the Mobile Pantry and Community Market—that are redefining hunger relief in the region. The MVFB's commitment to long-term stability is evident in its "Feed & Nourish" campaign, an urgent effort to secure its future and ensure that nutritious food remains accessible to every struggling neighbor.
Leadership and Legacy: The People Behind the Mission
The Merrimack Valley Food Bank’s journey from a grassroots effort to a regional powerhouse is a testament to the dedication of its founders and current leadership. Understanding their profile is key to grasping the organization's stability and drive.
- Organization Name: Merrimack Valley Food Bank, Inc. (MVFB)
- Headquarters: Lowell, Massachusetts
- Founding Year: 1991
- Founder: Jimmy Good
- Current Executive Director: Debbie Callery
- Charity Rating: 4/4 Stars on Charity Navigator
- Mission: To help meet a person's most profound need for adequate nutrition and freedom from hunger
Executive Director Debbie Callery
Debbie Callery serves as the Executive Director, leading the MVFB through its most challenging and expansive period. Her tenure has been marked by a focus on sustainable growth and community collaboration. Callery was instrumental in launching the ambitious "Feed & Nourish" campaign, recognizing the need for a modern facility to meet the region's escalating food insecurity demands.
Founder Jimmy Good
The MVFB was born from the vision of Jimmy Good and a group of friends who started distributing food from the back of a U-Haul truck in 1991. This humble beginning laid the groundwork for the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that today distributes over two million pounds of food annually to its network of member agencies.
The $7.8 Million 'Feed & Nourish' Capital Campaign
The most significant and current undertaking for the MVFB is the "Feed & Nourish" Capital Campaign. Launched to ensure the food bank's long-term sustainability, the campaign has a monumental goal of $7.8 million.
This multi-pronged effort is not just about fundraising; it’s about future-proofing the operation. The MVFB recently moved into a new facility in Lowell, MA, in February 2024, and this campaign is crucial for supporting the construction and operational needs of the expanded space. A major early commitment to this cause came from the Pentucket Bank Charitable Foundation, which pledged $50,000 over five years to support the new food facility.
The campaign’s success is vital for several reasons:
- Expanded Capacity: A larger, modern facility allows the MVFB to efficiently store and distribute more food, accommodating the growing demand for hunger relief services in the Merrimack Valley.
- Program Stability: It provides the financial foundation to sustain and expand innovative programs like the Mobile Pantry and Community Market.
- Operational Resilience: Securing long-term funding helps the food bank withstand external shocks, such as the recent cuts to federal programs.
Navigating the Impact of Federal Food Program Cuts
While the MVFB is focused on growth, it faces an immediate and severe challenge from federal policy changes. The organization has been directly impacted by the latest cuts to federal food programs, resulting in a loss of over $208,323 worth of food.
These cuts, often linked to broader changes in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and government shutdowns, place an enormous strain on local food banks. When federal support decreases, the burden shifts directly to community-supported organizations like the MVFB and its network of partner agencies.
The loss of substantial resources necessitates a greater reliance on local fundraising and food drives. For example, a Citywide Emergency Food Drive was organized in Lowell, MA, in November 2025, highlighting the community’s need to step up and fill the funding gap left by reduced government aid.
Innovative Programs Redefining Hunger Relief
The Merrimack Valley Food Bank is more than just a warehouse; it is a hub for several inventive programs designed to address the specific needs of its diverse service area, which spans 30 communities including Lowell and Dracut.
The Community Market Program
The Community Market is one of the MVFB's most successful initiatives. It operates as a free, farmer's market-style food distribution service, specifically serving residents in five neighborhoods within Lowell. This model not only provides access to nutritious, fresh produce and other goods but also offers a dignified, choice-based shopping experience, promoting health and community engagement.
The Mobile Pantry Service
The Mobile Pantry program is a crucial community-based health and nutrition service. It is designed for maximum accessibility, offering home delivery of nutritious foods tailored to meet the specific dietary needs of recipients. This program is vital for individuals who are homebound, lack transportation, or live in food deserts where access to fresh groceries is limited.
Summer Eats and School Programs
In partnership with the USDA, the MVFB runs the Summer Eats program, which ensures that children who rely on school meals during the academic year do not go hungry during the summer break. This initiative provides healthy lunches and snacks to children in need, directly combating childhood hunger in the region.
How to Support the Merrimack Valley Food Bank's Mission
The MVFB’s goal of distributing over two million pounds of food annually and its $7.8 million capital campaign are ambitious, but achievable with community support. Whether you are a local resident, a business owner, or an interested party, there are several ways to contribute to the fight against food insecurity:
- Donate to the 'Feed & Nourish' Campaign: Direct financial contributions are essential for the construction of the new facility and the long-term stability of the food bank.
- Volunteer Your Time: The MVFB and its network of member agencies rely heavily on volunteers to help with food sorting, distribution, and program assistance.
- Host a Food Drive: Organize a drive in your workplace or community to help replenish the food supply, especially to offset the impact of federal funding cuts.
- Support Partner Agencies: The MVFB acts as a primary distributor to a wide network of local pantries and shelters. Supporting these local partner agencies directly amplifies the food bank's reach.
By investing in the Merrimack Valley Food Bank, the community is investing in a healthier, more stable future for thousands of neighbors who struggle with hunger every day. The success of the "Feed & Nourish" campaign is not just a win for the food bank, but a victory for the entire Merrimack Valley region.
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