On December 10, The Friends of St. Nick will host our 30th Annual Charity Luncheon at the Four Points in Norwood. Each year we host this luncheon to honor outstanding members of our community with the goal of raising money for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute; a world leader in adult and pediatric cancer treatment and research. In our 30-year-history we have raised over a half million dollars through our raffle, auction and luncheon.

We are pleased to announce our 2021 St. Nick People of the Year: The Ecumenical Community Food Pantry of Norwood. The Food Pantry was born in the heart of one woman, Ruth Griffin. Inspired by the call to lay ministry and Ruth's own life experiences she was determined that anyone in need of food should have the dignity of selecting what they took away.

In 1989, Ruth wrote a proposal and received a grant of $2,000 from Project Bread and went looking for space. Grace Episcopal Church offered them a room which was being used for storage. On May 6, 1989, the food pantry opened it door to those who needed its assistance. 

Over the last 30 years, food and funds have been donated by the churches, synagogues, organizations, businesses, schools and individuals. The whole community of Norwood (and much of Westwood) has become involved from the very young in pre-schools to the older generation of volunteers. ​This is the story of a grass roots effort. It speaks of what can be accomplished when people of diverse backgrounds get together and when one person is moved to take action to accomplish a particular good.

We would appreciate, more than ever, if you would consider a donation for our event. Donors such as you are critical to our continued success. If you are able to contribute we would be honored. We would be grateful if you were able to donate to this year’s event by offering a raffle prize, silent/live auction item or cash donation. All donors are recognized in our event Ad book. Please send your donation(s) to FOSN Box 814, Norwood or call at 781-762-0042, we are happy to pick up too.

Thank you,

Kate M. Dempsey

Auction Chair