Greenfield

At a time when getting healthy food to those who need it most is critical, a farm-focused non-profit in western Massachusetts has been firing on all cylinders.

With the federal government committing to funding only half of this month’s SNAP benefits, states across the country, including in the Northeast, are continuing to pick a path forward with less federal food assistance funding now on the table. Massachusetts is home to at least a million people who rely on the program, with many in the state’s Gateway cities. However, as Hampshire, Franklin and Worcester State Senator Jo Comerford tells WAMC, food insecurity is just as present in one of the state’s most rural corners.

Amid a national legal battle to keep federal food assistance flowing during the government shutdown, produce providers in western Massachusetts have been bracing for impact -- with some taking action to ensure fruits and vegetables continue to go to those who need it most.

Next Tuesday, voters in Greenfield, Mass., will head to the polls, with a ballot measure drawing as much interest as some local races, if not more.It all stems from a vote the city council took months ago over a parking lot: a decision opponents have turned into a referendum.

Thousands of families across Massachusetts have been making the most of an annual, federally-funded summer food program. Advocates say “Summer Eats” helps bridge a gap for households while school’s out. The same officials have a wary eye on recent federal cuts targeting other food initiatives.

Pride Month is in full-swing in the Pioneer Valley, with multiple parades this weekend.

The superintendent of Greenfield Public Schools has submitted her resignation, almost a year after moving into the role.

City councilors in Greenfield, Massachusetts passed a budget put forward by the mayor, while falling short of passing a request for additional funds made by the school committee.

Lawmakers and officials from northwestern Massachusetts are pushing for east-west rail in their neck of the woods. Rallies held this week were in tandem with stakeholders calling on the Healey administration to restart Northern Tier Passenger Rail.

Millions in grant money will fund year-round, fare-free transportation services across the state of Massachusetts. The funds will cover rides provided by 13 of the state’s regional transit authorities – a plan the governor took on the road Thursday.