|
Dear Neighbors,
Community makes all the difference.
2025 was truly a year of change and resilience. We pivoted quickly to meet the growing needs of Needham families impacted by reductions in SNAP benefits. In doing so, we were reminded just how deeply we rely on one another. Time and again, our community stepped up to ensure that neighbors were not left behind.
While the Food Pantry remains a vital entry point for many, the Council’s work extends far beyond food support. Each day, we meet neighbors where they are, addressing health, social, and educational needs that strengthen stability, dignity, and connection across our community.
As we step into 2026, we are grateful to share a few highlights from the past year, all made possible by your support and commitment to our neighbors:
- Provided food to an average of 370 Needham households each month, with that number rising to 412 households this fall and remaining elevated due to the SNAP crisis.
- Instructed 185 students through our English Language Learning program
- Delivered an average of 285 rides to medical appointments each month
- Launched our Dementia Care Partners Support Program
- In partnership with the Council on Aging, distributed 97 iPads to residents aged 60+ and provided educational support to help them confidently use it
- Continued to grow Council Thrift revenue, with proceeds directly supporting Council programs
- Co-sponsored viewings of Shattered Ice, Screenagers, and the premiere of Through My Eyes: A Survivor's Journey Through Domestic Abuse
Thank you for your unwavering support. Your generosity enables us to respond to rising needs and provide comprehensive support to Needham neighbors facing unmet health, social, or educational challenges—today and into the future. There is still time to support the Council by donating today.
With warm appreciation and best wishes for a happy and healthy 2026,
| | |
Sandra Robinson
Executive Director
| |
Save the Date
Mark your calendars! Get ready for our 4th Annual Party for the Pantry.
MARCH 28, 2026
Tickets on sale in February.
Questions, please contact dev@needhamcouncil.org.
| |
Winter Community Highlights
We are inspired by and grateful for the incredible outpouring of support we received throughout the holidays and into the new year. Here are just a few highlights of the kindness we’ve witnessed recently:
Youth Involvement: We virtually visited 11 classrooms of 2nd graders to share how our food pantry works, inspiring several classes to start their own food collections. Additionally, the 5th grade Metrowest Basketball Team stepped up off the court to collect essential items for our shelves.
Corporate Kindness: We saw a surge in donations thanks to food drives hosted by local businesses and partners, including Sallie Mae, The Bulfinch Group, PEX, and Bierman ABA, among many others.
Selfless Celebrations: In a heartwarming gesture, a local resident turned their birthday party into a fundraiser, requesting donations to the Council in lieu of gifts and raising an amazing $1,000.
| | |
Food Pantry Update
Thank you for your continued support of the Food Pantry. Over the past year, we have seen a significant increase in need, with more new families turning to the pantry and more frequent visits overall. Compared to December 2024, pantry visits increased by 17% in December 2025, highlighting the growing demand in our community. There is still time to support our neighbors and help ensure everyone has access to nutritious food. Donate today.
| | | |
| |
Congratulations, Jeff Dinneen!
Please join us in celebrating Jeff Dinneen, the founder of Cans for Calcium, as he receives the Patrick and Patricia Forde Good Person Memorial Award on January 26th. This award honors Jeff’s incredible commitment to making Needham a better place to live through his support of our food pantry.
All are welcome to attend—check out the flyer for full details!
| | | | Dementia Care Partners Support | | |
Memory Cafe
All are welcome! Enjoy friendly conversation, light refreshments, and an uplifting “moving to music” session led by professional performance dancer Art Sullivan.
When: Tuesday, Jan 27th, 10:30am -12:00pm
Where: Needham VFW, 20 Junction Street
Registration is requested but not required!
To register or learn more, please contact Program Manager Stephanie Knoch.
| | |
Informational Session
Attend this free, one-hour session via Zoom to learn more about dementia and how to better support those living with it. Open to the public.
When: Wednesday, Jan 14th, 2:00pm- 3:00pm
Where: Via Zoom. Please RSVP to Stephanie Knoch to receive the Zoom invitation.
| |
Care Partner Consultation
Beginning Thursday, Jan 8th, Stephanie Knoch, LCSW, will offer weekly Care Partner Consultations from 1:00pm -4:00pm at the CATH (300 Hillside Ave). Sessions will be available every Thursday to provide support, guidance, and resources for those caring for a loved one living with dementia.
To schedule a time, please call the Council on Aging at (781) 455-7555 and request an appointment.
| | English Language Learning | | |
New ELL Groups
There are new winter classes. Click on the either image to learn about English language learning classes and groups beginning in the new year.
| | | |
Tutor Refresher
Ell Tutors are invited to a Tutor Refresher Night where ELL Teacher Beth Butterfoss will answer questions and offer advice about teaching English to adults. This is also a great opportunity to meet fellow tutors and learn from their experiences.
Tutor Refresher Night
Wednesday, Jan. 28th, 6:30-7:30pm
Please email Program Director Sheila Roberts to sign up.
| | |
iPad Distribution Success!
Supported by a grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs, the Council on Aging (COA), in partnership with our Tech & Tutors Program, successfully distributed all 97 iPads to Needham residents age 60 and older. Each device was paired with hands-on training to help participants stay connected, access programs, and build confidence using technology.
Through this program, residents connected with family, explored new learning opportunities, and stayed engaged in daily life. Congratulations to our Tech & Tutors team and the COA on a impactful partnership.
| | |
Tech Talks in January
Teens from the Needham High School technology clubs offer technology talks two days a week twice a month with support sessions after the Talk. Come check them out at the CATH (300 Hillside Avenue, room 207).
Jan 7th & 9th (3:15pm-4:15pm)
Graphic Design with Canva
Jan 21st and 23rd (3:15pm-4:15pm)
Internet Safety - How to Avoid Scams and Malware
The Tech Talks & Support Sessions are combined and are offered two days every other week at the CATH. More information can be found on our website.
| | |
Tech Assistance Update
Meet Sarah Dunnagan (left in photo), our newest volunteer for the support sessions at Needham Housing Authority (NHA) locations.
A Needham resident originally from Texas, Sarah brings a wealth of experience. She most recently worked as a Solution Architect for Salesforce in London and was previously a teacher in Ethiopia. Bring your technology questions and say hello!
See our website for the complete schedule at the CATH and NHA locations.
| | |
FREE Tech Class with Karen Zarrow
Class: Artificial Intelligence (AI) 101
When: Friday, Jan 30th, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm (Free)
Join Karen, Tech & Tutors Program Manager, for an overview of AI. Learn about the history, various types, current uses, and pros and cons of AI. She will also share ways you can use AI to write, create images, videos and more.
To sign up, please call the Council on Aging at (781) 455-7555.
| | |
Mark your calendars!
Big things are happening at the Council Thrift. While we are hard at work prepping for February's Antiques & Collectibles sale, we want to help you kick off the year with a win.
Join us on January 29, 30 and 31 for the New Year, New You Sale where you will receive 20% discount off your total purchase.
Shop! Save! Support! When you shop with us, you aren't just getting a deal, you're supporting our programs!
| | |
Volunteer of the Month
Lyndsey Bedor
We are proud to recognize Lyndsey Bedor as our Volunteer of the Month! Lyndsey has been a dedicated Food Pantry volunteer since 2022.
From the moment she arrives for her Wednesday morning shift, Lyndsey becomes organized and focused, making sure everything runs smoothly.
Lyndsey’s commitment to our mission truly shines as she jumps in to help in other areas of the Council, too. Whether it is signing up for special thrift sale events or delivering food on the holidays, she never hesitates to help where needed. We are incredibly grateful for Lyndsey’s generosity, hard work, and heart for service. Thank you, Lyndsey!
| | | Important Dates and Hours | | | |
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
The Council Thrift is also closed on Saturday, Jan. 17th. The Council offices, Council Thrift and Food Pantry will be closed the Monday, Jan. 19th.
| |
| |
Council Thrift & Donation Hours
Monday 10 am - 4 pm
Tuesday & Thursday 10 am - 6 pm
Friday 10 am - 4 pm
Saturday 10 am - 2 pm
Closed Wednesday & Sunday
| |  | |
Office
Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 4 pm
Closed Saturday & Sunday
| | | | |
Needham Community Council
570 Hillside Avenue
Needham, MA 02494
781-444-2415
office@needhamcouncil.org
Connect with us:
| | The Needham Community Council is a private 501(C)3 non-profit organization which supports people in Needham who have under-met health, educational or social needs, and promotes volunteerism, community and a sense of shared responsibility. | | | | |
