GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A new pilot program in Franklin County is helping independent restaurants stay afloat while providing thousands of meals to residents facing food insecurity. Through the Food Insecurity Grant Program for Independent Restaurants, the Franklin County Community Development Corporation (FCCDC) has partnered with local establishments to prepare and distribute meals across western Massachusetts. North Adams seeks artists to transform city crosswalks into public art One of the program’s standout participants, Mesa Verde in Greenfield, is preparing 3,140 hot meals for individuals who rely on the Franklin County Community Meals Program. Courtesy of the Franklin County Community Development CorporationCourtesy of the Franklin County Community Development CorporationCourtesy of the Franklin County Community Development Corporation With an initial investment of $450,000, the program aims to serve approximately 50,000 meals in its first year. FCCDC Program Manager Hannah Sobel worked closely with 13 food access organizations identified by the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and the Worcester Food Bank to coordinate meal distribution. Among the participating organizations are: Amherst and Northampton Survival Centers Franklin County Community Meals Program Gray House Ludlow Veterans Services Each organization nominated at least one local restaurant to take part in the initiative. In total, 20 restaurants are preparing nutritious meals that are then either served on-site at the nonprofit organizations or boxed and distributed to community members. The pilot program addresses two critical needs at once: supporting struggling independent restaurants and providing meals for residents experiencing food insecurity. The FCCDC’s efforts align with broader state initiatives aimed at reducing food insecurity while strengthening local economies. By creating a direct link between restaurants and food banks, the program ensures that resources are efficiently allocated to where they are needed most. With the success of the pilot program, there is now potential for expansion in the future, allowing more restaurants and food access organizations to participate. For more information on the Food Insecurity Grant Program for Independent Restaurants, visit their website. Local News Headlines Herrell’s Ice Cream announces winners of “What’s Your Flavor Idea?” contest Suspect arrested connected to counterfeit bills in Pittsfield Bars and restaurants see St. Patrick’s Day boom Springfield School Committee extends agreement for in-school cameras WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less