As the days grow shorter and the weather gets colder, things heat up at the Ashland Community Center!

Each year, the Town of Ashland’s Department of Prevention & Human Services, Recreation Department, and Senior Center team up with volunteers and community partners to host the annual Thanksgiving Meal Program and Holiday Program—ensuring the season is full of warmth, care, and connection.

The Thanksgiving Meal Program provides families supported by the Food Pantry or the Department of Prevention & Human Services with a complete holiday meal, including turkey, vegetables, side dishes, and dessert. In 2024, more than 100 meals were distributed to Ashland families.

This program is made possible by many generous community partners. The Ashland Emergency Fund purchases groceries from Market Basket, and local student groups and organizations hold food drives for additional items. On distribution day, the Department of Public Works delivers the meals to the Community Center, where town staff, volunteers, and committee members come together to pack and distribute them.

The following week launches the Ashland Holiday Program—an opportunity for Ashland families to experience the magic of the season and for sponsors to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families. Participating families share their children's holiday wishes by creating a wish list, and are then anonymously paired with program sponsors who use the lists to help purchase gifts. Individuals who wish to support the Holiday Program in other ways can donate gift cards or "filler gifts." Volunteer support—whether through time, gift donations, or other contributions—is essential to the program’s success.

Together, we can ensure every participating child receives gifts and help make the season brighter by fostering a sense of community and connection.  

- If you are interested in donating gifts to the Holiday Program please email the Department of Prevention & Human Services at [email protected].

- If you are an Ashland resident seeking assistance from the Food Pantry for the first time, please call 508-532-7949 or email [email protected] to complete an intake form.