A Legacy with an Impact – A generous gift from the Vinick family
Rachel’s Table is celebrating a one year anniversary of receiving a generous bequest from the Bernard and Norma Vinick family. This bequest will enable Rachel’s Table to reach out to 53 agencies across the Pioneer Valley and provide support to purchase healthy food during this critical time. The gift created a legacy with an impact – many more people have been fed and will be fed with this gift given from a question that confronts us all – how can I make a difference beyond the span of my own life?
Bernard “Bernie” Vinick was a member of Temple Beth El, and a Springfield native born in 1928. He attended high school and college in Springfield, made it his lifelong home, and now has left an enduring legacy. Bernie’s bequest to the Federation’s Rachel’s Table program is helping to meet the unprecedented need caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Lev Ben-Ezra, Executive Director of the Amherst Survival Center, said, “The Vinick gift came at the right time! It’s ensuring that our shelves are stocked so we can say ‘yes’ to all who need us.” Ben Holt, Pantry Director of Food Pantry Resources at The Gray House, says “We have witnessed a tremendous surge in the number of families struggling with food insecurity during this pandemic, and it is through generous gifts, like those by the Vinick foundation, that allow our agency to effectively respond to the crisis and continue providing healthy, nutritious food to our neighbors in need, week after week.
As we face the uncertain future, Rachel’s Table is honored to see the community support our neighbors. Sadly, food insecurity will continue even as we emerge from the pandemic. We thank those whose generosity, creativity and kindness inspire us to continue to step up and meet the growing need.
You too can help to make 2021 and beyond healthier for so many. Join us at www.rachelstablepv.org/bb2021 to support your neighbors, feed the growing need, and join the generous Vinick family in making a better today and tomorrow for so many.