Newton Rotary Club Challenges the Community to Match Our Commitment to Fighting Hunger

The Newton Rotary Club is proud to announce a significant commitment to addressing food insecurity in our community. In collaboration with the City of Newton, the Harmony Foundation, and Village Bank, Newton Rotary is donating $1,000 to each participating local food pantry as part of a community-wide food drive honoring the enduring legacies of Setti Warren and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

This initiative reflects the shared values championed by Dr. King and Setti Warren—service, justice, dignity, and collective responsibility. It also recognizes a simple truth: while moments of unity inspire action, the need to support families facing food insecurity does not end with a single event or season.

A Community Challenge

Newton Rotary is issuing a challenge to our community—to civic organizations, faith communities, businesses, neighborhood groups, and individuals—to match our donations or rally alongside us. Together, we can amplify the impact of this effort and ensure that support for our neighbors continues well beyond this drive.

“This is a powerful moment for our community, but it must also be a sustained one,” said Gayemarie Brown, President of the Newton Rotary Club. “We challenge others to stand with us. The spirit of service embodied by Setti Warren and Dr. King reminds us that the work of ensuring dignity and access for all is ongoing. This need continues, and so must our commitment.”

How Your Support Helps

All food and household items donated at Village Bank, the Newton Free Library, or Newton City Hall will be equally distributed among the participating food pantries:

  • Newton Food Pantry

  • Centre Street Pantry

  • Arabic Baptist Food Pantry

What to Donate

The greatest needs include:

  • Canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans)

  • Nut butters

  • Rice, pasta, and grains

  • Canned fruits and vegetables

  • Cooking oils, spices, and shelf-stable staples

  • Baby supplies (wipes, diapers)

  • Toiletries and household essentials

Newton Rotary Challenge!

This food drive continues through February, but its purpose extends far beyond that timeline. By coming together now—and committing to ongoing support—we honor the legacy of leaders who believed deeply in community action and shared responsibility.

Join Newton Rotary in meeting this challenge. Match our commitment. Strengthen our community. Ensure every family has access to nourishing food and the dignity of choice.