The First Universalist Society in Franklin (FUSF) is honored to announce that it is one of only four congregations nationwide selected to receive this year’s Unitarian Universalist Association’s (UUA) Bennett Award for Congregational Action on Human Justice and Social Action. The award recognizes FUSF’s longstanding commitment to Food Justice and its deep partnership with the Franklin Food Pantry.

In presenting the award, the UUA commended FUSF for “crafting a robust program that embodies solidarity rather than charity in the practice of mutual aid.” The UUA highlighted the congregation’s long-term collaboration with the Franklin Food Pantry, including waiving rent for Pantry activities, creating multigenerational opportunities for engagement, and addressing food insecurity through donations, legislative advocacy, and a community care campaign during a time of crisis. The statement called FUSF’s efforts “a profound example of the impact congregations can have locally when they are attuned to the needs of their broader community.”

“While this is not why we do this work of social justice, it is an honor to be recognized by the national office of our denomination,” said FUSF President Caitlin MacDonald.

FUSF’s minister, the Rev. Beverly Waring, added, “This award represents our commitment to social justice as a congregation. We consciously work to put our faith into action in many ways. FUSF believes in giving back to the greater Franklin area community.”

The First Universalist Society in Franklin is a Unitarian Universalist Welcoming Congregation located at 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin. For more information, visit www.fusf.org, email [email protected], or call 508-528-5348.