“The time is always right to do what is right.”
~Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
SPRINGFIELD, MA – Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services (MLKFS) has resumed full operations following a temporary closure caused by a gas leak. All programs reopened today, and the Emergency Food Pantry will reopen Thursday, April 9, returning to its standard schedule. The Food Bank Mobile Food Truck will also return to its regular location and hours on April 9.
During the closure, MLKFS teams acted swiftly to secure contractors, obtain necessary permits, and expedite inspections to ensure a safe and timely reopening. Despite the disruption, programs and services continued without interruption through adjusted operations.
“Our community demonstrates time and again that collective strength is not just an ideal — it is a practice,” said Shannon M. Rudder, President & CEO of MLKFS. “The way partners, staff, and families came together during this disruption underscores the power of community and our shared commitment to ensuring stability and support for our youth and families.”
MLKFS remains focused on delivering essential support to young people, families, and the broader community. And our work continues with these upcoming programs and events:
Strong African American Families — Public Health Week Kick-Off
MLKFS was featured during the City of Springfield’s Public Health Week Kick-Off event on Monday, April 6, highlighting the Strong African American Families program. Special recognition is extended to Chief of Public Health & Strategy Innovation Ariana Williams for her leadership in advancing this work.
HBCU Tour Kick-Off — April 18
MLKFS will launch its 42nd annual HBCU Tour on Saturday, April 18 at 6:30 a.m., sending Scholars on a weeklong educational and cultural experience.
Kings’ Kids Summer Camp Enrollment Is Open
Registration is now open for the 2026 Kings’ Kids Summer Camp. Families may register through the MLKFS website: www.mlkjrfamilyservices.org
The Root: Mason Square — Community Design Dinner
A community engagement session will be held Thursday, April 9 from 5:30–8:00 p.m. at the Mason Square Library. Residents are invited to share ideas for shaping the future of The Root: Mason Square.
MLKFS acknowledges the many partners and community members who offered support throughout the temporary closure. Their collaboration reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to collective action and community strength.
To sustain this work, please consider donating at: Donate – MLKFS
About:
Since 1977, Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services has served as an anchor institution ensuring Dr. King’s Beloved Community throughout Western MA. The mission of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services is to lead with hope and drive action, shaping futures and igniting transformation across cultures and generations. Through innovative programs in educational enrichment, public health, youth leadership, food access and wellness, family support, and economic opportunity, we empower individuals, youth and families to overcome barriers, rise and lead purposeful, liberated lives.
Media Contact:
Claudia Pazmany



