HAVERHILL, MA – The comforting smell of a home cooked meal is one that has had a habit of bringing families together for generations. For the Hearts Apart Foundation that meal is meatballs, and the families are military.
Part of the family readiness group at Hanscom AFB Military Family & Readiness Center, The Hearts Apart Foundation helps to provide support for military families while loved ones are overseas. It’s a cause that instantly drew the attention of Frank Simonetti, President of the Boston Bruins Alumni Association. “It’s a heavy lift when one – or sometimes both the head of the family are deployed, supporting us and keeping us safe. Hearts apart takes care of the families when they’re home.”
Putting a fun spin on a classic fundraiser, Hearts Apart worked in conjunction with American Legion Post #4 in Haverhill to host a meatball cook-off boasting sweet, savory and even spicy family recipes – and is the first food contest sponsored by the Boston Bruins Alumni Association. “Eating is one of the things we do best as a team, so we’re happy to lend our skills,” says Simonetti.
What’s the vibe: A family-friendly feast indulging in a wide variety of homemade meatball recipes in a laid–back, casual setting.
Nancy Budenas, whose husband served in the U.S. Air Force for 36 years, explains she started the foundation as a way to help offer a bit of light to families with loved ones serving their country through donations. From toys at Christmas to fun experiences and holiday baskets, Budenas says the smallest gesture can make a large impact. “I know what it’s like to be alone, when they’re deployed,” she explains. “You see them talk amongst each other, enjoying each other’s company. I think it helps them get through that time. Makes them feel like they’re not alone.”
To learn more about or make a donation to the Boston Bruins Alumni Foundation, visit https://www.bostonbruinsalumni.com/donations.html.
To see more stories like this or if you have an event you’d like to pitch to Emmalyn to cover, email emmalyn@emmalynreid.com.
Music: bensound.com | License code: 69JYBLWYLEZ9OH95
Emmalyn Reid 