Elks lend a helping hand

RUMFORD/MEXICO- Members of the Rumford Elks Lodge #862 donated several bags of canned goods, food and money to the local GRAMPA food pantry recently. 

After reading the article in this paper about the strain on the food pantries, members voted to host a public supper in response to their recent plea for support from the community during these difficult times.

On December 13, there will be benefit supper at the Elk's lodge located at 60 Exchange St. from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The cost will be $7 per adult and $5 per child under the age of 12. Take out orders will also be available.

Items for the supper include American chop suey or baked ziti, salad or cole slaw, homemade breads, assorted desserts and coffee.

Those planning to attend are being asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate and in return, their name will be entered for a holiday centerpiece to be drawn at the end of the night's event. 

Some members will be visiting local businesses in order to raise donations of gift certificates, items, etc. for a silent auction to take place during the night. Others will be pre-selling meal tickets for take-out meals.

"We hope that this will pull together the community to help support and respond to thenees of the local pantries," noted Ann White.

Following the meal, drawings will be held for items that have been donated by local businesses. Those who purchase tickets must remember to include their name, address and phone number in order to be notified of winnings. 

Winners will be notified by the lodge to pick up items they won if they are not present at the time of the drawing. 

All proceeds from this public supper and silent auction will be donated to local pantries. 

If you would like to donate an item for auction or giveaway, please drop it by the lodge by December 10.

For ticket information, please call 364-4022.