FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Mike Johnson of Manchester, a volunteer at the Augusta Food Bank, was one of 17 volunteers selected as a 2022 Patriots Difference Maker of the Week.

As part of this recognition, the Kraft family, the New England Patriots Foundation and Gillette is making a $5,000 donation to support to the nonprofit organization represented by each honoree. The Patriots Difference Makers received a pair of tickets to attend the Patriots’ final regular season home game Jan. 1 against the Miami Dolphins and participated in a pregame ceremony, according to a news release from Andrea Skawinski, community relations coordinator for the New England Patriots.

The food bank was established in 1981 to provide healthy food for those in need throughout the greater Augusta area. Its food intake and distribution numbers have increased 67 percent over the last two years, to where it now provides the equivalent of more than 55,000 meals every month.

Johnson has been volunteering at the food bank for more than 10 years. He volunteers every day that they are open — stocking shelves, coolers, and freezers; sorting produce and eggs, cleaning the facility and pitching in wherever he can.

The food bank has a number of dedicated volunteers, but Johnson stands out as one who consistently goes above and beyond. He is loved by staff, fellow volunteers, and customers. He knows every job in their operation, the news release notes.

This marks the 12th season of that the Patriots Difference Maker of the Week Award has been presented to volunteers from across New England. Since its inception, more than 180 individuals have received this award and over $890,000 has been donated to local nonprofit organizations.

To learn more, visit patriots.com/community.

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