Every week, the Marion Institute’s farm-to-food relief programs harvest fresh, nutrient-rich produce grown right here in our community. This food is destined for families who rely on local food pantries — but without reliable refrigeration, our ability to deliver and expand that impact is limited.
Why Refrigeration is Essential
Fresh produce is delicate. Carrots, leafy greens, and herbs start losing nutrients and quality the moment they’re picked. Without refrigeration, valuable food spoils quickly, meaning less makes it into the hands of families who need it most. For a place like Frogfoot Farm, where harvests are large and consistent, refrigeration is the bridge between healthy crops in the field and healthy meals on the table.
A refrigerated van — which we’ve lovingly nicknamed the “Harvest Hopper” — ensures that food harvested in Southeastern Massachusetts can travel safely across the region. It means carrots stay crisp, greens stay fresh, and families can trust the quality of what arrives at their local pantry.
How You Helped
Our goal was to raise $75,000 to fund this essential addition to our farm-to-food relief system. With your help, more families will gain consistent access to healthy, local food they can count on… and WE DID IT!
Make Frogfoot Your Farm Too
This is more than a van. It’s an investment in food equity, nutrition, and improving health for neighbors in our community.
Together, we are keeping food moving from fields to families — fresh, safe, and full of life.





