A group from The Resource Center recently organized an impressive food drive for a local church pantry, and they’re eager to continue supporting their community.
At the Gateways PROS (Personalized Recovery Oriented Services) Center in Dunkirk, the Building Community Through Service group collected food for The Fred Basket pantry at Fredonia Presbyterian Church. Over two months, they gathered 150 items, totaling 124 pounds. Donations came from both the Resource Center and the community, showcasing local generosity.
Rev. Holly Clark-Porter of the church expressed her gratitude, highlighting the deeper meaning behind food donations. “Food is basic, but it’s never just food; it’s dignity, care, and connection,” she said. This partnership demonstrates a strong community spirit, proving that neighbors looking out for one another makes them stronger.
The project was facilitated by Jaala Haskins, an employment and education specialist, and Ke-Khee Greenough, a behavioral health clinician. Haskins explained that the group aimed to develop vocational skills while integrating into the community. They chose The Fred Basket because of the church’s commitment to providing quality nutrition to local families.
To promote the food drive, students practiced marketing by personally delivering flyers to local businesses. This effort encouraged them to refine their communication and networking skills. Their work paid off when community members began dropping off donations after seeing their flyers.
Students didn’t just contribute food; they also learned logistics and inventory management through this project. “They shifted from being service recipients to community providers,” Haskins noted. “This experience proved they have what it takes to succeed in any job.”
Looking ahead, the students plan to maintain support for the church and expand their efforts to help others. They are excited about a new drive to collect hygiene essentials, addressing another critical need in their area.
Such initiatives not only benefit the community but also empower participants with valuable skills. Studies show that volunteering can improve mental health and boost professional prospects. According to a report by the Corporation for National and Community Service, individuals who volunteer are more likely to find employment and feel fulfilled in their roles.
Haskins emphasized their ongoing commitment to finding diverse volunteer opportunities: “Our goal is to help our students build their vocational portfolios while giving back to the community.” It’s heartening to see community members and organizations come together for a common purpose, proving that kindness can have a lasting impact.
Source link
Local/Region,Resource Center assists in food drive for pantry
