Robert Fontes is a long time Chelmsford resident in his 70s who has farmed a small area of land on Dalton Road for decades. Many of us have enjoyed his locally grown tomatoes, beans, squash, melons, potatoes, and other produce for many years as one of the most profound pleasures of the harvest season.

Unfortunately, Mr. Fontes was diagnosed last year with bone cancer. As one would expect, the treatments have been costly. Never a wealthy man, he has accumulated nearly $1,500 in uncovered medical co-pays and of course the amount is climbing with ongoing treatments.

Better Not Bigger has set up a fund for Mr. Fontes so that local residents can provide contributions to defray some of the bills. The contributions will be matched by Better Not Bigger so your contribution amount will be effectively doubled. A number of small contributions will do the trick. We’ll report progress later in May.

Checks can be made out to “Robert Fontes Fund” and mailed to Better Not Bigger, PO Box 156, Chelmsford MA 01824.

Sincerely,

Roland Van Liew

P.S. Mr. Fontes was out this weekend preparing the fields for planting. He is in phenomenal physical condition. Even so, due to the illness his legs hurt if he works too long, but with various family members helping out we should expect more fresh produce this year – the stand is at 99 Dalton Road, and opens in July.