MARION — As National Nurses Week wrapped up last week, Marion-based Ripe From The Vine Oil & Vinegar Company made a delivery of several cases of certified Ultra Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil to Tobey Hospital's Emergency Department, its fourth drop-off in the last two months.  

More than 16 cases of bottles have been gifted to staff at Southcoast Cancer Center in Fairhaven, St. Luke's Hospital emergency department and Tobey Hospital's intensive care unit and emergency room.

Each 375 ml bottle included a handwritten note thanking them for "doing the most difficult job during the most difficult time."

Owners Kelly and John Zucco opened their shop in the middle of the pandemic and made a promise to give back to the community when they were in a position to do so.   

"We have supported more than 25 youth groups and non-profit organizations in the last 18 months, but we wanted to do something on a larger scale," Kelly Zucco said. 

"We decided to show our appreciation to some of the angels in our community who have done a tremendous job caring for those most in need during the most difficult time we have faced in our lifetime."

Located on Route 6 in Marion, Ripe From The Vine specializes in certified ultra premium extra virgin olive oil from around the world, fused and infused artisan oils, and gourmet white and dark balsamic vinegars. Their showroom, featuring over 70 varieties, doubles as a tasting room.