Recent events have brought to light that it is not too early to think about Chautauqua County Rural Ministry when considering the holidays. This Friday, Shorewood Country Club is holding an event to benefit the agency. It is set for Oct. 20.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10. There will also be a 50-50 raffle and a wine pull. Featured comics are Alex Brady and Liz Reaves. Brady is a Buffalo native who has been performing stand-up comedy for six years. He is a featured comedian at clubs in Buffalo and Rochester and “can be found performing at clubs all along the 90 and beyond,” according to the flyer promoting the event.

As has been noted in this paper, Rural Ministry — which has traditionally helped so many who have been in need of assistance in recent decades — is facing fiscal difficulties. Over the summer, a press conference was held at the location on Washington Avenue in Dunkirk 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.

This has hampered the agency’s efforts to assist. Kathleen Peterson, Rural Ministry executive director, put out a call last week for help for the coming months. “At this time, we are seeking items for Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets, along with gifts for children,” she said.

If other businesses are interested in the work of Rural Ministry and would like to help, contact the 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.

Thanksgiving is nearly one month away. There is time for the community to show its giving spirit.