This holiday season, Christmas arrived early for Marcola Helping Hand—and it came with four wheels and a mission. After months of fundraising and countless volunteer hours, The Willamettans proudly presented Helping Hand with a cargo truck that will dramatically improve their ability to serve families throughout the Mohawk Valley.
Marcola Helping Hand plays a vital role in providing food support to local families, but transporting those supplies has always been a challenge. Volunteers often relied on personal vehicles, borrowed trailers, or rented U-Haul trucks to move food from storage to the distribution facility. Every pickup required careful planning, extra expense, and significant physical effort.
The Willamettans frequently stepped in to assist, offering trucks, trailers, and many helping hands. As the community’s needs grew, so did the strain on volunteers and the limitations of available equipment.
Seeing the need for a long-term solution, The Willamettans launched a series of fundraisers to purchase a dedicated cargo truck for Helping Hand. Through generous support and the determination of volunteers, the goal was reached—and last week, the truck was officially delivered.
This new vehicle represents far more than transportation. It provides Helping Hand with a reliable, efficient way to move food where it’s needed most. The truck will reduce the time, cost, and labor involved in weekly pickups, allowing volunteers to focus on what matters most: serving families in the Mohawk Valley.
As one volunteer shared during the presentation, “This truly is a very Merry Christmas gift—not just for Helping Hand, but for everyone they support.”
With this donation, The Willamettans reaffirm their commitment to compassion, community, and teamwork. And thanks to many hands working together, this cargo truck will continue to make a meaningful difference long after the holiday season has passed.
Now, that *is an excellent example of the true meaning of Christmas!