More Than 1,000 Households Help Marblehead SPUR In 2020

MARBLHEAD, MA — More than 1,000 households contributed to the Marblehead SPUR's efforts to help children and residents in need in Lynn, Marblehead, Salem and Swampscott amid the coronavirus health crisis in 2020.

The Marblehead nonprofit said there were 1,644 volunteer opportunities filled through harvesting the organic garden, meals programs, a school supply drive and the Holiday Cheer Drive where members of the Marblehead High girls volleyball, girls lacrosse and girls youth lacrosse families were among those who bought gifts for area children in need.

"Because of our experience building a community of engaged volunteers, we've continued to support and grow the programs for which we’ve come to be known while pivoting to respond to changing and critical needs," said Jocelyn Cook, SPUR's Executive Director. "When COVID hit, our network of volunteers and partner organizations enabled us to serve as a resource hub to make meaningful connections between those who had a need and those with something to give."

The organic Community Roots Garden program at the Church of St. Andrew produced about 900 pounds of produce for local food pantries and the food insecure.

SPUR volunteers prepared 2,470 meals for area shelters.

Sponsors purchased 663 backpacks full of school supplies and 594 holiday gift packages.

SPUR volunteers helped clean up trash from 39 parks and beaches.

Volunteers also paired with individuals in need to help with grocery deliveries, prescription pickup, were phone buddies, helped with dog walking and more following the onset of the pandemic. SPUR volunteers sewed more than 700 reusable face masks for area shelters and senior living facilities.

To learn more about SPUR and its volunteer opportunities go here.

Go here to make a tax-deductible donation to support SPUR's year-round efforts.

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