Photographers, Residents Step Up to Support Emergency Fund, Food Pantry

The need for the Ashland Emergency Fund (AEF) due to the coronavirus pandemic and economic shutdown has never been greater as many friends and neighbors struggle to make ends meet. As a way to raise money for AEF and the food pantry and foster community spirit, three Ashland photographers—Ryan Boyles (an Ashland high school student), Jeff Troutman (Jeff Troutman Photography), and Candice Ryder Wilson (CW Kids Photography)—have joined together to take part in The Front Steps Project to support AEF, the food pantry, and the new Resident and Restaurant Relief (3R) program
“The Front Steps Project was started by Needham photographer Cara Soulia [on March 17] to take a quick family picture outside of people’s homes, while practicing plenty of social distancing,” Brandi Kinsman, coordinator for Ashland’s Front Steps Project, said. “Since then photographers around the country have been offering their services without charge, with an honor-system donation to the local charity supporting their town through this crisis. It’s also been a great way to lift people’s spirits and bring a community together—virtually of course.”
“AEF is looking to raise a minimum of $50,000 to be able to meet the anticipated needs of our community due to coronavirus (the need could be much more than that). One hundred percent of the donated money goes directly to our Ashland neighbors. The volunteer board of the AEF personally covers the few operating expenses they have, so all funds help those in need.”
“It was really important to me to help the community in any way I could during this really tough time. And I love that these amazing photographers jumped into this and offered their time and talent to this cause.”
“AEF is providing the funding for the town’s Resident and Restaurant Relief program, which provides meals from local restaurants several days each week to anyone that may need a helping hand. They are making sure that our food pantry is stocked with food, which is so important with the increase of residents using the food pantry. And they are our community’s safety net for residents who may not be able to pay their rent or car payment right now because they have lost a job due to this pandemic. Ashland is extremely fortunate to have AEF as a resource during these challenging times.”
Note that, at this time, AEF will accept monetary donations and gift cards to support the food pantry but not food and supplies.
To have your picture taken through the Front Steps Project, complete a short form, https://forms.gle/sewHU7qY9m86agj88, and one of the photographers will schedule your 10 minute photo session with you.
To make a tax-deductible donation to AEF, send a check to The Ashland Emergency Fund, P.O. Box 112, Ashland, MA 01721, or donate by credit card online, www.ashlandemergencyfund.org/donate-now.