Beacon of Hope Community Services volunteer selected as Hannaford Health Hero
Leominster resident recognized for commitment to promoting health and wellness
LEOMINSTER, Massachusetts – A volunteer with Beacon of Hope Community Services has been selected by Hannaford Supermarkets as a “Hannaford Health Hero” for her dedication to encouraging healthy eating habits for adults with developmental disabilities.
Kathy Bergeron, 68, of Leominster, volunteers weekly with Beacon of Hope Community Services to plan, prepare and serve healthy meals to adults with developmental disabilities enrolled in the organization’s evening respite program.
Bergeron is the seventh Bay State resident to be recognized this year by Hannaford Supermarkets in conjunction with the Hannaford Health Hero program. Now in its second year, the program will recognize the work of 12 volunteers who inspire others within the community to make healthy choices for life on behalf of non-profit organizations.
“At Hannaford, we strongly believe in promoting health and wellness within the communities we serve,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Molly Tarleton. “We are thrilled to honor Kathy as a Hannaford Health Hero and commend Beacon of Hope Community Services for its commitment to encouraging healthy lifestyles for Massachusetts residents.”
In recognition of the organization’s commitment to health and wellness, Beacon of Hope Community Services will receive a $250 Hannaford gift card. Bergeron will also receive a $50 Hannaford gift card.
Bergeron was nominated by Vicki Briggs, executive director of Beacon of Hope Community Services, which provides supportive services to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families with supportive activities, respite, advocacy and education.
In the nomination, Briggs wrote, “Kathy ensures that there are gluten-free alternatives and lactose-free products available for those who need it. Whenever dessert is served, a sugar-free option is always available for those with diabetes or individuals who are watching their caloric intake. Kathy’s mindfulness of weight control extends to exercising portion control with all of the participants.”
Hannaford Supermarkets invites executive directors or volunteer coordinators of registered 501(c)(3) organizations throughout Massachusetts to nominate a volunteer or group of volunteers from their agency as a Hannaford Health Hero. Nominations may be submitted online at www.hannafordhealthhero.com.
Hannaford Supermarkets operates 26 stores located throughout the northeast and north-central corridors of Massachusetts.
About Hannaford Supermarkets
Hannaford Supermarkets, based in Scarborough, Maine, operates 182 stores in the Northeast. Stores are located in Maine, New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. All Hannaford stores feature Guiding Stars, America’s first storewide nutrition navigation system and most stores have full-service pharmacies. Additional information can be found at www.hannaford.com.