Donations sought for Easter hams for seniors

Franklin County TRIAD Officer Ray Zukowski, DJ Robert “Bobby C” Campbell and Franklin County Sheriff Christopher Donelan hold hams donated to area senior centers in 2021. Money is being collected now for the eighth annual Franklin County TRIAD Hams for Seniors fundraiser.

Franklin County TRIAD Officer Ray Zukowski, DJ Robert “Bobby C” Campbell and Franklin County Sheriff Christopher Donelan hold hams donated to area senior centers in 2021. Money is being collected now for the eighth annual Franklin County TRIAD Hams for Seniors fundraiser. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

By DOMENIC POLI

Staff Writer

Published: 03-06-2024 11:08 AM

Modified: 03-06-2024 2:04 PM


Local DJ Robert “Bobby C” Campbell is soliciting donations for his eighth annual Franklin County TRIAD Hams for Seniors drive.

People have until March 18 to contribute cash to the fundraiser and Campbell hopes to purchase 400 hams to distribute to seven area senior centers in time for Easter, which is on March 31.

“We’re trying to raise some dough,” he said.

Checks can be mailed to: Bobby Campbell, 303 Fairway Ave., Turners Falls, MA 01376. In the memo section, write “F.C. TRIAD HAMS FOR SENIORS 2024.” Campbell said the money is used to buy Carando hams, and some fixings, from Market Basket. He said he has his work cut out for him, due mainly to inflation.

“I think people are little bit strapped … at the moment,” he said. “I think we’re sitting in a stagnant year this year.”

Campbell said people can sponsor as many hams as possible, for $35 apiece. He explained the senior centers distribute the hams to both active and homebound senior citizens. People can also donate via Venmo, at @bobbyCcampbell.

The TRIAD program is a crime-prevention and wellness initiative aimed at protecting the safety and welfare of Franklin County residents ages 60 and older. The program collaborates with the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office, local police department and SALT Councils (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together). The division is staffed by nine uniformed deputies who serve approximately 1,400 Franklin County senior citizens and senior centers. All deputies are academy-trained with law enforcement powers.

Franklin County Sheriff Christopher Donelan said the Hams for Seniors drive is the perfect intersection of the TRIAD program and Campbell’s charity work.

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“His intent is getting as much food to seniors as possible,” he said. “Senior folks struggle with their bills and I think, particularly around the holidays, to ease the burden of the food expense, is very helpful — to just let folks relax and enjoy the holiday and not worry about where that meal is going to come from.”

Reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or 413-930-4120.