Club dinner and dance event raises $20,000 for six local schools’ backpack and food programs
The Florenceville Rotary Club celebrates the success of its “Help Feed Our Students” dinner and dance on April 20.
“Thanks to amazing community support, Florenceville Rotary will donate $20,000 to ‘We’ve Got Your Back River Valley’ weekend backpack program and school food programs in the six District of Carleton North schools,” said Rotarian Lorena Green.
She said Rotary Club President Barb O’Donnell welcomed 200 people to the Knights of Columbus Hall in Bath on April 20 to enjoy a chicken dinner followed by dancing to the music of John Maunder and the Common People.
In her welcome to guests, O’Donnell pointed out the table centrepieces, which showcased a sample of the food items included in the weekend backpacks of food sent home with students experiencing food insecurity.
Green explained that the “We’ve Got Your Back River Valley” program, under the auspices of True North Baptist Church, has supported local students since 2014.
“At the current cost of $2,000 per week, approximately 90 backpacks are being packed, delivered to the six DCN schools and taken home by students during the 38 weeks of the school year,” Green explained.
She said the schools also offer food programs during the school day to ensure that all students have access to nutritious food.
Green explained community volunteers and financial support make the programs possible.
“Florenceville Rotarians are pleased to be able to offer financial support, pack backpacks monthly and volunteer in school food programs,” she said.
Green said the We Got Your Back River Valley program remains in need and always appreciates support for the food security programs.
“Florenceville Rotarians wish to thank all that made the $20,000 donation possible,” said Green.
She cited the contributions of Charles and Peggy MacDonald and their team, who prepared the dinner, and the donations from Hartland AgroMart, Brennan Farms, Crabbe Lumber, Marks the Spot, Bobbi’s Convenience, and All Aboard Convenience to cover the costs.
Green also expressed the Rotary Club’s appreciation for the support from the Knights of Columbus, True North Baptist Church, the District of Carleton North, and the many community members who bought tickets or made donations.
“This was truly a community event,” she said.
