Neighbor Helping Neighbor

Sowing Seeds of Hope

By Alyssa Quackenbush

Since the onset of the pandemic, nonprofits all over have had to make adjustments to the way that they run as varying needs and increased demand has followed close behind COVID-19’s trail. Sowing Seeds of Marshfield is no exception--though the way that they run has not changed much since March, the organization has seen a major influx of families who are seeking help. 

Sowing Seeds differs from a lot of charities and nonprofits in town because a majority of their work is quiet. You may know them from their clothing bank on Plain St., their joint work with other organizations around town like the Boys and Girls club or the Food Pantry, or even through their transportation services. But, as President Ray Joyal described to me over the phone, the most important work that Sowing Seeds does is their intakes.

Sowing Seeds has over 30 intake volunteers, and when somebody calls needing help, two intake volunteers will meet with the person and conduct an in-depth interview to determine financial need (this process takes place over the phone during COVID). From there, Sowing Seeds will take care of any rent or mortgage payments, bills, or any other services that need to be paid, as well as providing suggestions for additional social/emotional aid resources that can help. 

2020 is Sowing Seeds’ 25th anniversary, and over the years the organization has answered over 12,000 calls. They make sure to maintain contact with their clients after help is provided so that they can continue to be a resource for these individuals and families if news needs arise. They are completely volunteer-run, with over 120 volunteers on their team.

Though it is not their most visible component, Sowing Seeds makes significant financial donations every year. Since March, they’ve seen a major increase in the families who need their help. Sowing Seeds is one of the agents of the Marshfield Community Fund, so they have been able to distribute that money throughout the pandemic, but they are always welcoming donations, especially now as the noneviction statute comes to an end and rent becomes due for people who cannot afford it. 

The organization does not have a signature fundraiser. They were scheduled to host a 25th-anniversary gala this year, but that was canceled. In the past, they have hosted concerts, fashion shows, and more. But, ultimately, the majority of the donations come from charities and people around town. 

As for parting words, Ray glowed over the phone, “We have been truly blessed with the generosity of the people in this town.” He noted the pay-it-forward nature of the organization, through both the donations they receive and the donations that they give back to the community. 

Sowing Seeds remains notably under-the-radar considering the unfathomable level of support that they have provided to our community members over the past 25 years. Even with the occasional advertising that they do, they aren’t the most high-profile resource in town. If you or someone you know may need to use one of the many tools and aids that Sowing Seeds provides, don’t hesitate to contact them.

They're here to help you.

How to help.

For more information on Sowing Seeds’ mission and how to get involved, please visit sowingseedsofhopemarshfield.org

If you wish to donate, the website above has the capability to take PayPal and credit card donations. Otherwise, you can send a personal check to: 

Sowing Seeds

P.O. Box 1001

Marshfield, MA 02050

Sowing Seeds is also taking gift card donations to places such as Marshalls/TJMaxx and local grocery stores in anticipation of the holiday season. If you would like to donate a gift card, you can mail one to the address above or contact Ray at rjoyal6267@aol.com or at 781-718-2920.