Hannaford donates $200,000 to Creative Connections Clubhouse to support development of new recreational center for local youth

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Amsterdam, New York – The Hannaford Charitable Foundationtoday announced a $200,000 donation to the Creative Connections Clubhouse, a nonprofit in Amsterdam that offers a welcoming and safe environment for local youth. The funding will support the development of a new recreational center to provide a healthy, accessible space for teens and young adults to connect and foster community.

The center, which will be the only facility of its kind in the City of Amsterdam, will serve as a multipurpose gathering space for the community, providing educational and developmental resources, as well as cultural activities. Programming will include youth recreational activities and athletic leagues, farmers markets, food drives and other community-oriented events.

“Hannaford is proud to support the work of Creative Connections Clubhouse and all they do to foster a thriving community in Amsterdam,” said Hannaford Charitable Foundation Board Member Andrea Nickerson, who also serves as Vice President of Retail Operations at Hannaford Supermarkets. “The organization’s commitment to providing local teens with an environment where they can interact and grow through fun and engaging activities, all while feeling safe and secure, is so important to the long-term health and success of families in Amsterdam.”

According to U.S. Census data, 21 percent of Amsterdam’s population lives below the poverty line, which is higher than the national average of 12.5 percent. Creative Connections Clubhouse’s new recreational center will fill a critical need, as there has not been a community gym space in Amsterdam in more than two decades. The programs offered will encourage active lifestyles, which combat obesity and mental health challenges.

“These funds, donated by Hannaford, turn what was once a mere thought into a definite reality,” said Creative Connections Clubhouse Director of Outreach John Sumpter. “With this generous contribution, the gymnasium will have the opportunity to expand its programs and improve community engagement. The donation will help create an environment where people can connect, grow, and support each other through shared experiences. This donation marks a significant step towards achieving the gymnasium's full potential and making a lasting impact for years to come.”

Creative Connections Clubhouse offers a variety of staff and peer-led programs aimed at building positive relationships, learning life skills and engaging recreational activities. Some of their current programs include arts and crafts, team building, sports, academic assistance, culinary skills and financial literacy.

For more information about Hannaford’s community efforts and charitable giving initiatives, visit Hannaford.com/HannafordHelps.

About Hannaford Supermarkets

Hannaford Supermarkets operates 189 stores in the Northeast, most with full-service pharmacies. Stores are located in Maine, New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. All are committed to offering great fresh food, convenient experiences and everyday low prices. Hannaford also is an active and committed community partner—focusing on fighting hunger, supporting youth development, and helping people live healthier lives. Hannaford is an industry leader in sustainability with a strong commitment to reducing waste and protecting the environment. Hannaford diverts or donates all food at risk of going to waste—sending no food to landfills. In 2024, Hannaford donated 27.5 million pounds of food to hunger relief organizations. Hannaford employs nearly 30,000 associates and is based in Scarborough, Maine. Additional information can be found at Hannaford.com.

About Creative Connections Clubhouse

The Creative Connections Clubhouse offers a safe and welcoming alcohol- and drug-free environment, where youth can stimulate the mind, develop life-enhancing skills, and create lasting positive relationships with others. To engage youth in the Clubhouse, we offer a variety of staff and peer-led programs, that aim to enhance the building of positive relationships, promote the building of life skills and allow for Clubhouse Members to have fun in a safe, sober, and supportive environment. Along with fostering positive youth experiences and relationships, Creative Connections Clubhouse believes in the importance of creating a positive sense of community.

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