Canning: A new way to fundraise & hang out with friends!
Updated: Nov 29, 2022
Sunday at 12pm, a time many college students may be relaxing or studying, you may find 5-10 UMDM Steering Committee Members set up outside of the Target at the Hampshire Mall. Equipped with Munchkins from Dunkin, coffees, signs, and a can for donations, they’re fundraising for Baystate Children’s Hospital.
Hayley Shore, our VP of External Relations, says, “Canning is not only about asking people for money, but creating connections with people in the community that have been directly or indirectly affected by Baystate Children’s which makes it so rewarding.” One such connection was made with a woman who, on her way into Target, explained that her daughter had been a patient at Baystate’s NICU (Neonatal ICU). If Baystate did not have that resource locally, her daughter would have had to get airlifted to Boston, and she may not have made it.
Although canning used to be one of UMDM’s favorite ways to fundraise, with Covid-19, it was nearly impossible to do safely and in compliance with local businesses. Since its return, UMDM has been able to fundraise over $500 in just two days, and has connected with dozens of local Amherst-area parents and families, many of whom have been impacted by Baystate’s amazing care themselves.
Not only is canning effective, but it's fun! Hanging out with friends, listening to Steering's favorite playlist, and making memories while doing something good is what UMDM is all about.
If you are interested in canning yourself or having UMDM can in front of your business, please contact Hayley Shore at umassftkexternal@gmail.com. And if you see us on your Sunday grocery run, stop by and say hi! You may be able to make an impact on the lives of local children.