Welcome

Name: Clothing Drive
Start: 2024-03-25T09:00:00-04:00
End: 2024-05-04T16:00:00-04:00
Location: Gardner CAC

Welcome to Gardner Community Action Committee (CAC), a non-profit organization, located in Gardner, Massachusetts, focused on serving the needs of economically disadvantaged individuals throughout the Greater Gardner community.

In addition to the City of Gardner, our service area includes the towns of Ashburnham, Baldwinville, Hubbardston, Otter River, Templeton, and Westminster.

To learn more about this local organization and how we serve our community, please surf our website. For more information on specific programs, scroll down to the icons below.

2023 Appeal

Dear Friend,

For 53 years, the Gardner CAC has helped countless families in need, and we are committed to continuing our work. Taking a few minutes of our time to reflect on the last year, we’ve seen how deep the impact of our current economy and inflation has had on the people we serve.

In the last fiscal year, all of our programs have seen an increase in utilization – some experiencing a 60% increase! Here’s a glimpse of what we accomplished in our community… read more

The Backpack Program

The Backpack Program takes place toward the end of every summer. Gardner CAC distributes 200 brand new backpacks to qualifying students grades K-12.

Clothing

The Gardner CAC provides gently used seasonal clothing to those in need at no cost. Through the generous support of the Worcester County Sheriff’s office, over 300 winter coats are distributed annually.

Dinner’s On Us!

Dinner time can be the busiest time for many families. We can help. Gardner CAC offers eligible applicants, healthy, ready-to-cook fresh crockpot dinners. Click on the link above for more information and to apply.

Emergency Assistance

Should you find yourself and your family in dire straits, in need of food, shelter, or clothing, please contact Gardner CAC right away at 978.632.8700.

Food Distribution

Open Monday-Thursday, 10:00 a.m –1:00 p.m., the Gardner CAC food pantry provides groceries to families and individuals in need who reside in Gardner, Ashburnham, Hubbardston, and Westminster.

Fuel Assistance

The cost of home heating during the winter can put a strain on your budget. Older folks and young children are especially at risk when the temperatures drop. If you find yourself unable to pay your utility bills during the winter months, you may be eligible for fuel assistance through the LIHEAP program.

Fellowship Table

Meals served at 4:30 pm on most Thursdays at First Congregational Church. Click on the link for more details.

Holiday Programs

During the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday times, the Gardner CAC offers food baskets and children’s toys and gifts for eligible local families and individuals.

Medical Transportation

Transportation to medical appointments, both in town and out of town, is available for seniors citizens age 60+. Our van travels as far as Worcester and Emerson Hospital. This service is available Tuesday–Friday with pickups starting at 8:00 a.m. The van is returned to Gardner by 4:30 p.m.