Feed-a-Friend kicks off 25th year in county
Published: October 21, 2009
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John Paul and Carol Jones, Montrose area food bank coordinator Lynn Senick, Emerson and Eva Whitehead, Oakland area food bank coordinator Aletha Monahan and Rep. Sandra Major. STAFF PHOTO/STACI WILSON
2009 marks the 25th year of the Feed-a-Friend program in Susquehanna County. An average 900 families are served by the program each year.
Feed-a-Friend provides Thanksgiving dinner to Montrose and Oakland area food bank recipients.
But at the program kick-off luncheon held Oct. 13, Trehab executive director Dennis Phelps said he’s anticipating more need in the county this year.
Lynn Senick, who heads up the Montrose area food bank, said the number of monthly recipients has been steadily growing this year.
School student participation is key to the yearly success of the Feed-a-Friend program.
Elk Lake and Susquehanna Community student councils, along with the Montrose Area Key Club were acknowledged at the luncheon for their contributions.
Susquehanna Community student council president T.J. Kelly said this year the grades would compete against each other to see which grade could bring in the most items. Winners would earn a movie day.
The entire Susquehanna student body has also challenged the teachers. If teachers bring in more food than the students, the teachers will receive free carwashes.
Elk Lake also collects the canned goods with grade level versus grade level competitions. Winners will receive an ice cream party.
The Montrose Key Club collects food from the community. Members go door-to-door with information and then return to pick up donations at a later date.
Students also help pack the food boxes before distribution.
Phelps also recognized to area couples for their contribution to the program as volunteers.
Carol and John Paul Jones and Eva and Emerson Whitehead have been active Feed-a-Friend volunteers and received plaques for their service at the luncheon.
“I’m very proud of what we’re doing,” said Phelps. “Every year we try to do a little more.”
