You don’t need me to tell you we are in Challenging Times, but for some of our neighbors these are really Disastrous Times and it’s possible you do need me to tell you that, on account of some kinds of pain are more or less invisible to the rest of the world. The food pantries from Benzie to the Straits echo in their emptiness. The demand is pressing. They could use some help.
So, the good news is, Bob Hicks tells me that on Friday, August 7, a donor who wishes to remain anonymous appeared at the Eastport Market and did something about it. The donor handed over some $1,300. Russ and Donna Abbott, proprietors of the Market, handed over a nice discount. The food went straight to Good Samaritan in Ellsworth where, as it happens, many folks connected with the Market are active volunteers. Simple. Straightforward. No tax forms.
Good Samaritan is a wonderful place that serves many families who have run up against Hard Times. The help was very much appreciated. If you live in this neck of the woods, you might consider following the example of Anonymous Donor. You can find out more about Good Sam at its website. If you live in the neck of some other woods, there will be some other food pantry that could use your help. This is your engraved invitation to have at it.
Meanwhile, thanks, Anonymous Donor. Thanks, Russ. Thanks, Donna.
Torch Lake Views 
flandrumhill
August 11, 2009
Would you believe that many charities are against anonymous giving these days? They believe that large donations by certain individuals will inspire (or perhaps pressure?) others to follow suit. I think anonymous giving is the way to go and is an inspiration in itself.
“…But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.”
Matt. 6:3-4
Chris Allen-Wickler
August 11, 2009
This is inspiring to me! My mother started a food bank in Rochester, Minnesota in the 80’s and a community garden. Her idea was to connect generations of old and young working side by side. It was a beautiful seed she planted that is still living.
La Mirada Bob
August 11, 2009
Does Good Sam have a Grant Writer who would probably find some funding for specific items. One that I am aware of was $45,000 to add more meat to the food at a soup hour program run by a church.