Coastal Windows & Exteriors, a Beverly-based exterior remodeling company, is marking its 10th consecutive year of donating turkeys and fixin' bags to The Open Door Pantry and Beverly Bootstraps, as The Open Door reports a 26% surge in food assistance requests since 2024. The company donated 50 turkeys weighing 839 pounds to The Open Door in Gloucester, with each bird tagged to honor recent customers. Additionally, 25 fixin' bags were contributed to Beverly Bootstraps' goal of assembling 750 complete holiday meal packages.
The initiative, launched in 2015, has invested over $10,000 in direct food support, donating more than 500 turkeys. The effort embodies the concept of "Freedom from Want," a phrase from President Franklin D. Roosevelt's 1941 speech, later immortalized in Norman Rockwell's 1943 painting. For Coastal Windows & Exteriors, Freedom from Want means ensuring North Shore residents have both shelter and sustenance.
"What is Freedom from Want in today's world? It's both shelter and sustenance—a secure roof overhead, a warm draft-free home and food on every table," said Stephanie Vanderbilt, owner of Coastal Windows & Exteriors and 2024 Massachusetts Small Business Person of the Year. "As the #1 woman-owned exterior remodeling contractor in New England, we protect homes from cold and unpredictable weather. Through our community partnerships, we're equally committed to making sure those homes have filled pantries and warm holiday meals."
Julie LaFontaine, President and CEO of The Open Door, said, "For the past decade, Coastal Windows has embraced the spirit of giving by helping create freedom from want during the holidays with turkey donations. This effort is a powerful example of community strength and the impact of business partnerships working together for good."
The company's decade-long commitment extends beyond Thanksgiving, supporting veterans through the Roofs for Heroes program and maintaining partnerships with organizations addressing fundamental needs. As the Farmers' Almanac predicts a harsh winter with energy costs projected to rise 13% or more, the intersection of housing and food security becomes even more critical. Coastal's work helps homeowners reduce energy bills through high-performance windows, insulated siding, and energy-efficient roofing systems, freeing up resources for other essentials.
Established in 2011, Coastal Windows & Exteriors is a woman-owned, family-run company recognized for numerous accolades, including the SBA Massachusetts Business Person of the Year and the GAF President's Club Award. The company is a GAF-certified roofing contractor and James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, offering energy-efficient replacement windows, vinyl siding, and entry doors.
