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Brookshire's helps Goodfellows with food drive |
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Written by Brian McCormack
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Thursday, 04 December 2008 |
The Sweetwater Goodfellows, which distributes food and toys to families in need during the holidays, has received a show of support from the community.
One of the businesses helping to make a difference for the organization is Brookshire's. The company has been holding a food drive, with the items collected to be donated to the Goodfellows. The contributions will then be distributed to those who have qualified for their assistance.
Although every kid needs to get a toy for Christmas, some families are in need of food more than material goods.
The Brookshire's corporation has generously packaged food bags, which are then sold at the store for $5. Once purchased, the bags can then be added to the donation box at the front of the store, and will in turn be given to those in need.
John Alden, store director for the local Brookshire's is pleased with the response from the community. "We've had great success with the food drives the last couple years," he said. "Our box is overflowing with donations. Sweetwater always shows support, it's a good community."
According to Goodfellows' President Billie Johnston, the organization currently has 700 applicants for assistance, 400 of which are children in need of toys. Goodfellows gives three toys per child, and is hoping for at least 1,200 toys to fulfill their goal.
The group is also doing things a bit differently this year. Johnston said that in the past, the toys were handed out, with the toys given correlating with the age of the children. Specific items were purchased for various age groups. Now, the donations will be set up similar to a store, and the parents can actually choose which toys to give to their children. Johnston hopes the community support will continue, as the enrollment number of recipients has increased from last year.
"I want to encourage everyone to donate food or toys if they can," Johnston said. "The schools have been great. They are holding competitions to see who can collect the most toys."
Another Goodfellows representative, Linda McKenzie, said that last year 400 toys were received at the toy drive held at Wal-Mart. This season's toy drive will be held in front of Wal-Mart again on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. "The drive was so successful last year," McKenzie said. "We're hoping to have another great turnout this year. We are greatful for anything we get."
Those donating toys at Wal-Mart will receive a free drink and a hot dog, too.
The final distribution from Goodfellows is slated for 9-11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 12, at the Lamar Street Baptist Church recreation building. Though parents are asked not to bring children to the distribution, they are welcome to return with their kids to the church's recreation center that afternoon from 3:45-4:45 p.m. to attend a Christmas party, complete with a visit from Santa Clause.
Those interested in making a monetary donation to Goodfellows can mail their contribution to P.O. Box 1148, Sweetwater, TX 79556. Checks should be made payable to Goodfellows. |
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Last Updated ( Friday, 05 December 2008 )
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