SPEAKERS:
Kevin Bellinger and Anne Crockett presented the program on the monthly Community Suppers.  Jeannie Waite came to Kevin over a year ago and told him about her passion to feed the hungry children in our community.  She thought the Alliance Church was a perfect venue for these community suppers.  40% - 60% of the children in our community are on free lunch.  The decision was made to partner with Adult Ed to provide community suppers for those families in need.
The idea began with the emphasis on feeding children.  However the emphasis has turned toward Senior Citizens who are needy both for food and socialization.  Approximately 80 - 120 come to each supper.  The last Wednesday of the month has been chosen which particularly helps Senior Citizens who do not have alot of money toward the end of the month before Social Security checks arrive.
The menu each month is varied and planned at least 3 months ahead of time.  Having a healthy meal is emphasized.  Tomorrow's menu (August 31) is spaghetti and meat balls.  Staple items are always provided such as peanut butter and jelly, salads, breads, desserts, beans (made by Marvin Ouwinga) and apple juice.  Cathy DiCocoa sends a vegetarian meal.  Left overs are sent home with those who come for the dinner.  The Gott Farm at Telstar has provided fresh vegetables and students to help.  The Alliance Church also has a garden and furnishes vegetables.
The hours are as follows:
The dinner itself is from 4:30 - 6:00.  Help with set up is needed from 2:30 - 4:00 (Sometimes the Girl Scouts help with set-up).  Helpers are also needed for serving, making staples and clean-up which goes from 6:00-7:00.  Although the area for the suppers is handicapped accessible, some citizens also need rides.  Flyers are put up in the Bethel House advertising the supper.  Although alot of Senior Citizens come, more and more needy families are also attending.
Rotary members mentioned that Telstar and Gould have community service requirements for graduation.  This would be an excellent on-going opportunity for students.  It was suggested that we have a sign-up sheet at Rotary the day before the suppers.

VISITING ROTARIANS AND GUESTS: Keving Bellinger (Arizzi), Anne Crockett (Arizzi), Rebecca Andreozzi (Kunkle)