Rivier University Sharing the Feast Project donates Thanksgiving meals for local families
Rivier's Sharing the Feast tradition continues to grow. The communities' generosity extended the project's reach, supporting the greatest number of families in 2020.
Rivier University’s annual Sharing the Feast Project raised $9,000 in donations this month from members of the Rivier University and Sunset Heights Elementary School communities. The initiative provided more than 400 gifts cards to local agencies to provide meals for Greater Nashua residents in need this holiday season.
The traditional interfaith Thanksgiving Prayer Service was held virtually this year giving thanks and blessing the food, volunteers, recipients, donors, and community. Rivier athletic teams, first-year students, Campus Ministry Club members, the Student Government Association, and the Sunset Heights Elementary School community were acknowledged for their fundraising support.
“Even though we came together virtually rather than in person, the feeling of community really came through this year,” says Anna Molettieri, Rivier Director of Campus Ministry and the event organizer. “Members of the community responded quickly and generously – we surpassed our goal, allowing us to help more individuals and families. This is helpful, especially this year, as some agencies reported serving up to three times the number they usually do.”
Rivier’s community partner, Sunset Heights Elementary School students, families, and staff, have participated in the Sharing the Feast Project for more than 30 years. “We have a great connection with Sunset Heights Elementary School,” Molettieri continues. “Traditionally, they hold a food drive and the PTO raises money to donate turkeys to the event. Also, in years past, we have hosted one representative from each grade for the prayer service and following luncheon. This year, they became a fundraising partner through our campaign, and we were able to keep the connection alive.”
Twelve Nashua-area agencies received donations this year including Corpus Christi Food Pantry, Greater Nashua Mental Health Center at Community Council, Healthy at Home, Keystone Hall, Nashua Oncology and Hematology, Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter, New Hampshire Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army, HIV/AIDS Task Force, Title One, New Fellowship Baptist Church Community Outreach Resource & Education Center Nashua, and Xavier House.