More than a ‘gift’: Donations pouring into Rural Ministry
Trending
Several local businesses have reached out to support Chautauqua County Rural Ministry’s challenging times.
After not being awarded a five-year grant through state Department of Health, Rural Ministry has hovered over a cloud of uncertainty on providing basic needs to those served through their food programs. Basil Fredonia’s employees and customers held a food drive to help CCRM’s soup kitchen and emergency food pantry.
Joe Basil and several employees donated approximately one and a half tons -- 3,000 pounds -- of non-perishable products. “It’s beyond being grateful,” states Executive Director Kathleen G Peterson.
Peterson went on to say that this was the largest business donation since she has been with Rural Ministry, nearly 40 years. Basil collected everything from canned vegetables, canned fruit, boxed goods and other non-perishable items to keep the pantry and soup kitchen flourishing.
Joe Basil III, general manager at Basil Fredonia, said the company, employees and customers are committed to helping those less fortunate and giving back. Right after receiving the donation from Basil, Putnam Agency brought in another several hundred pounds of food.
Earlier in the week, Dunkirk Senior Center donated 850 pounds of food. Several other businesses, such as Specialty Metals have reached out to CCRM to conduct food drives for the upcoming holidays. “At this time, we are seeking items for Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets, along with gifts for children,” Peterson said.
If other businesses are interested in the work of Rural Ministry and would like to help, contact CCRM offices at 716-366-1787 or email Executive Director Peterson at ccrmkp@gmail.com or Director of Programs Bridget Majka at ccrmmajka@yahoo.com. All donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law. Rural Ministry is a Community Partner of United Way of Northern Chautauqua County.
In August, a press conference was held at the agency on Washington Avenue to highlight delays in getting grants from Nourish NY, after its administration was moved to the Department of Health, from the Department of Agriculture and Markets.
The delays have led to deep worries about funding for food banks such as the Rural Ministry and its Friendly Kitchen.
At the time, state Sen. George Borrello said the Rural Ministry “serves hundreds of people, people in need.” However, they face a “problem created by bureaucracy in Albany,” he said.