Pies for a purpose: Local woman finds delicious way to give back

Once a month, you may notice something unusual outside 204 Atlantic Ave. It’s a line of people outside a garage, waiting their turn for some coveted pies from Diana Breed, Marblehead’s own “Pie Lady.”

Breed and her friends started a pie club this summer. The first sale in July and featured all blueberry-flavored pastries.

Each month focuses on an ingredient: In August it was peaches and this month it’s apple.

Diana Breed delivers money raised by pie sales to Ray at the Marblehead Food Pantry. COURTESY PHOTOS

“My personal favorite is strawberry rhubarb and every spring rhubarb is one of the first vegetables to come out so it’s hard to find, so I’m kind of known to go to every produce department at every farm. I think the apple pie is going to be a big hit this month.” said Breed.

All proceeds from each sale are donated to a local cause. In July and August, they raised more than $2,000.

The idea came to Breed after hearing conversation about the Marblehead Food Pantry running low.

“We thought ‘Well this is a perfect opportunity.’ The very first cause we did was the Northeast Animal Shelter and then the second month we did the Marblehead Food Pantry. That was more of a success because we asked people to come and buy the goods but also bring canned goods and groceries.” Breed told the Current.

“It’s really a lot of fun and it’s really heartfelt by everyone that’s doing it. Everyone donates either their time, ingredients or where they come and they work at the sale. So far, we’ve sold out both times well before noon so we’re pretty excited and we’re gonna keep trying to do this once a month.” said Breed.

The group has about 40 members with 20 or so volunteers at each sale, but there is always room for more whether individuals are looking for community service hours or to give back to their community.

The club has a big event coming up in October, partnered with the Ellie Fund, a Needham-based charity that offers support services for breast cancer patients.

“It helps them financially; maybe they need rides, maybe they need food or babysitters to help watch their kids while they go out for treatment. Marblehead is going to be painting the town pink on October 3rd and 4th, so our October sale will be Saturday, October 4th.” said Breed.

If you are interested in following along with Pies For A Purpose, you can find their Instagram and Facebook at Pies For A Purpose Club. If you are interested in volunteering, baking or donating to the club, please contact Diana Breed at DHBreed@gmail.com.