Letter to the Editor

Your View: Help us, help others

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

In 2004, I was privileged to become a part of, what has become known as, the Community Thanksgiving meal started by Beverly Baker out of her home about 20 years ago. In 2004, we delivered over 300 meals into the community and served another 100 at the church.

The following year, we delivered almost 400 meals into the community and served another 75 at the church. Last year the number delivered increased to over 500 and including those served on the premises, our total was over 600. This year we anticipate that the numbers will continue to grow.

In order to meet our goal to feed the senior citizens of our community and surrounding area who might otherwise go without a Thanksgiving meal, we need volunteers to help prepare and deliver those meals, as well as donations of food and gift cards to help purchase supplies.

It is our policy not to accept cash, but gift cards from Wal-Mart or Food Giant are acceptable. The generosity of the community in the past has been overwhelming and we look forward to enjoying the same spirit of giving again this year.

This year the meal will be prepared, served and delivered out of the Shriner's building behind the ballpark on east Malone. To volunteer or donate, please call: Marlene Stevens, 573-471 8697 or Linda Bollinger, 573-545-3679. If no answer, please leave a message and we will return your call.

Example of things needed: institutional sized cans of corn, green beans, instant mashed potatoes, large cans of sweet potatoes, chicken broth and cream of chicken soup.

Gift cards may be sent to: Marlene Stevens, 212 Kate Drive, Sikeston, MO 63801 or Linda Bollinger, P.O. Box 281, Benton, MO 63736. Canned goods may be dropped off at 212 Kate Drive or you may call us to pick them up.

Marlene Stevens