FITCHBURG —The monetary sting was taken out of holiday shopping for hundreds of families this holiday season thanks to a joint effort between the Fitchburg Art Museum and the Fitchburg Public Schools.

Saturday morning, Walmart gift cards were handed out to Fitchburg families who drove by to pick them up from the Fitchburg Art Museum’s (FAM) parking lot. The gift cards were made possible by the continuation of the Fitchburg Families First program, a pandemic relief program started last year. Last year, the program provided food and school supplies to students in the Fitchburg Public Schools as well as their families. 

“The Museum is more than colors, shapes, pictures, sculptures, and artists. In Fitchburg, the Museum becomes a lending hand to help the community during these difficult times. Being part of the Fitchburg Families First is a privilege because I have had the opportunity to meet wonderful families along the way. I feel very proud to represent Fitchburg Public Schools and honored to be part of this amazing project with the help of the FAM,” said Luisa Fernandez, the family liaison for the Fitchburg Public Schools.

According to a release from FAM, the program is funded by the Cathedral Fund, a Boston-based self-described arts engagement foundation. This month, two hundred and thirty families were given Walmart gift cards, an art activity for kids and some families received a free box of food donated by the Worcester Regional Food Hub.

Fitchburg Families First plans on holding three events in the new year. On Jan. 15, Feb. 12 and March 12, area families will have the opportunity to receive Market Basket gift cards through the program. 

There are no pre-qualifying factors to receive aid from Fitchburg Family First, so anyone who feels they need assistance is welcome to come to future events. 

For those who would like to donate, please contact Laura Howick at lhowick@fitchburgartmuseum.org.