Sholan Farms Volunteers Pack 3,200 Pounds of Apples for Thanksgiving

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, volunteers at Sholan Farms in Leominster, Massachusetts, packaged an impressive 3,200 pounds of surplus apples on November 12, 2025. These apples, packed into over 900 bags, will be distributed to various food pantries, nonprofits, and churches, providing support to families in need during the Thanksgiving season.

More than two dozen volunteers participated in this initiative, demonstrating a commitment to helping those facing food insecurity. The effort culminated in the packing of 80 bushels of apples, showcasing the generosity that has characterized Sholan Farms throughout its 24-year history. According to Joanne DiNardo, President of the Friends of Sholan Farms, this year marked a significant turnaround from the previous season, where the farm struggled to provide apples due to poor crop yields.

“Sholan Farms has been truly blessed with apples, volunteers, and a great staff during the 2025 season,” DiNardo noted. “Last year was devastating, as we had to buy apples. This year, we ended the season with excess apples and were able to give back to the community.”

Community Partnerships Strengthen Holiday Support

The apples will benefit numerous local organizations, including Our Lady of the Lake, St. Anna, and Leominster United Methodist churches, as well as Ginny’s Helping Hand and the Leominster Veterans Center. The partnership with these entities enhances the community’s ability to provide for those in need during the holidays.

Executive Director of Ginny’s Helping Hand, Brandon Robbins, expressed gratitude for the fresh produce included in their Thanksgiving baskets. “Sholan Farms’ donation of over 200 bags of apples brings something truly special to our Holiday Food Baskets of Hope,” he said. The nonprofit has seen a notable increase in requests for assistance this year, attributed to rising grocery costs and heightened food insecurity.

Robbins emphasized the impact of local support: “Adding fresh, local apples to our baskets brings both nourishment and a little extra joy to our neighbors. We’re incredibly grateful for Sholan Farms’ continued commitment to supporting our community.”

Community Efforts Highlight Local Generosity

In addition to the apple donation, Ginny’s Helping Hand recently received 5,440 pounds of nonperishable food from a drive at Fall Brook Elementary School. This collaborative effort exemplifies how community members can unite to support those in need. The organization acknowledged the contribution on social media, celebrating the involvement of students and staff in gathering the food.

“Your kindness shows what happens when a community comes together — big hearts, helping hands, and kids leading the way,” the nonprofit posted, highlighting the positive effects of community engagement.

DiNardo expressed her appreciation for the volunteers who braved the cold to contribute to the apple packing event. She extended special thanks to orchard managers John Brannin and Mike Meehan, along with students from RFK Academy and other community members who assisted in harvesting and packing.

“This is what a community farm is all about,” she said. “We take pride in all that we do and strive to be an important resource to the community.”

The successful packing event at Sholan Farms not only provided essential nourishment for local families but also served as a reminder of the power of community collaboration during the holiday season.