BROCKTON, MA, November 6, 2025 – It was only a year ago when data from the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance identified Brockton as one of the top ten communities in Massachusetts with the highest rates using SNAP benefits – over 33% of its population. Now with SNAP benefits at risk, delayed, or missed entirely due to the federal government shutdown, the City of Brockton is building upon its efforts to address the challenge of food insecurity experienced by far too many people living in the area. In addition to holding Weekly Community Food Resource Meetings attended by more than 50 from various local organizations, the City has been fielding inquiries directly from residents seeking resources related to food insecurity with a majority of inquiries also including a request for additional resources related to heat, housing, transportation and medical services.
Thanks to a new public-private partnership, the City is announcing a $1 million donation from the Eastern Bank Foundation to address food insecurity.
City of Brockton Mayor Robert Sullivan said, “This million-dollar donation is an amazing contribution to support the welfare and greater well-being of the Brockton community. The Eastern Bank Foundation once again is providing much-needed relief in a very challenging time of need, and we are incredibly grateful for their longstanding support.”
City of Brockton Mayor-Elect Moises Rodrigues added, “We will do all that we can to ensure Brockton is a community of economic vibrancy and opportunity, which begins with stable and secure access to food. Thank you to the Eastern Bank Foundation for continually stepping up to help support this goal for our community.”
Brockton is a community long-served by Eastern Bank, the region’s largest, locally-headquartered community bank, and previously Brockton-based HarborOne Bank which recently merged with Eastern. This latest donation by the Eastern Bank Foundation, which includes a focus on addressing issues of economic inclusion and mobility in the communities it serves, will support organizations addressing issues related to food insecurity and assistance in Brockton.
Turahn Dorsey, President and CEO of the Eastern Bank Foundation, said, “The Eastern Bank Foundation believes helping to ensure the vibrancy of our local economy and community happens through collaboration and working side-by-side with organizations addressing real-time concerns and supporting people experiencing real-life issues. On behalf of our entire team and new colleagues joining from HarborOne Bank, thank you to the City of Brockton and the many organizations and leaders working urgently to help offer additional support.”