Join Our Community of Change-Makers Focusing on Hunger Relief!
About Us
We believe that ending hunger requires a collective effort.
Gathering Hope Food Pantry is a collaborative effort between the Helderberg Family and Community Organization (HFCO) and the Knox Thompson’s Lake Reformed Church. This partnership was created in 2024 to address the ongoing food insecurities in the Hilltown area.
With the availability of the Thompson’s Lake church hall and with the support of Home Depot, the Food Pantries for the Capital District, and the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY, we hope to provide a sustainable and local source of food and other resources for our neighbors.
We're grateful for the support of our volunteers, donors, and partners who make our work possible. Together, we can build a community where everyone has access to the nourishment they need to thrive.
Our Mission
Gathering Hope Food Pantry will support the health and wellness of our neighbors by providing access to nutritious food and support services in a respectful and dignified environment.
We believe that food security is a basic human right, so we are committed to responding to the needs of the community through food distribution and support services.
Board of Directors
Our team consists of highly qualified and motivated professionals, who are all experts in their field. With many years of experience, they have the expertise to provide compassionate service to the community.
Maryellen Gillis
Board Chair
Rev Rebecca Town
Board Clerk
Becky has been a minister since 2007, having served in churches in Prattsville, New Paltz, and now the Hilltowns. She is currently co-pastor of Knox Thompson's Lake Reformed Church, alongside her husband Greg, where they've served since January 2021.
Becky has been serving and blessing others since she was young. Her love for others and longing to others whole and healthy have driven her in helping establish the food pantry.
Lisa Maceyak
Board Treasurer
Lisa is semi-retired after over 37 years with New York State, where she worked across various agencies and Authorities. With more than 20 years of experience in Project Management, Lisa is excited to bring her skills to this role.
Lisa loves working with a dedicated Board to support the Hilltown community. Together, we’ll help improve access to nutritious food and promote healthy eating habits. She looks forward to creating a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment for everyone who visits our food pantry.
Tom Burgess
Board Member, Lead on Renovations
Tom is an architect specializing in historic preservation who grew up in an old farmhouse in Knox. After honing his craft in Boston, he returned to the area and became a principal at MCWB Architects in Albany. He now lives with his wife and two daughters back in his hometown and sees Gathering Hope as an opportunity to give back to the community that raised him.
Deirdre Keating
Board Member, Volunteer Coordinator
Deidre is excited to be working with the Gathering Hope Food Pantry and coordinating an awesome group of volunteers to support the Hilltowns. She is honored to be part of this wonderful endeavor and grateful for the support we have already received.
Rev Greg Town
Board Vice-Chair, Director of Daily Operations
Greg has been a minister since 2007, and has served in a handful of places around NYS. He is currently co-pastor of Knox Thompson's Lake Reformed Church, alongside his wife, Becky, where they've served since January 2021.
His gift of hospitality drives his passion to ensure that every household in the community is nourished well, both in body and in spirit.
Jennifer Mizener
Board Member, Communications
Jennifer, now semi-retired, is grateful to have the time to give back and saw the Gathering Food Pantry Board as the perfect fit. She is eager to help the pantry expand its reach, strengthen its partnerships, and ensure that everyone who walks through its doors feels seen, supported, and empowered.
She believes the food pantry plays a vital role in the community—not only as a source of nourishment but as a beacon of hope. Jennifer is honored to be part of that mission.
Lisa Ferrucci
Board Member, At Large
Our Partners
We are grateful for the support of our partners in making this vision happen!
