Ministerial assocation needs donations for holiday baskets

BONNERS FERRY — Looking for ways to brighten the holidays for yourself and others?

Then consider joining the Boundary County Ministerial Association in providing Thanksgiving and Christmas food baskets for those living in our community who are in need.

For many years, the association has partnered with local churches, businesses, families and individuals to raise money and food for the annual project.

Last year, donations made it possible for 188 families and 564 family members to enjoy a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Churches provided homemade pumpkin pies to top off the holiday meal.

“So far, requests for Thanksgiving Baskets are way ahead of last year,” said Father Gregory serves as treasurer of the Ministerial Association.

“Because of tough economic times and a high jobless rate, we anticipate that requests for Christmas baskets will increase as well,” the priest added.

Applications for food baskets can be picked up at the Community Action Partnership Office located next to Verizon on the south hill. Pastors of local churches have also been provided blank applications.

Holiday food items needed for the baskets include packaged gravy mix, stuffing mix and Jell-O mix. Canned goods including olives, chicken broth, cranberries, vegetables and fruit are also needed to fill the baskets.

Those wishing to donate a turkey, should call, 267-1501.

Food can be dropped off at several churches. Check with your pastor. Food can also be left at Aikens Harvest Foods, across from the post office. Just look for the red barrel by the store’s front entrance, beginning Monday, Nov. 12.

To donate money, send your check to the Ministerial Association, Box 722, Bonners Ferry, ID, 83805.

Holiday food baskets are only one of several services the Ministerial Association provides to those in need.

During the year, donations are used to provide emergency food and shelter. The association also assists those with limited incomes, especially the elderly, with rent and utility payments.

Thanksgiving baskets will be packed at St. Ann’s Catholic Church on Monday, Nov. 19, beginning at 8:45 a.m. Recipients can pick up their baskets between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Unclaimed baskets will be taken to the Senior Center, and Restorium for their use.

If you have any questions, or would like to volunteer to help with the baskets, please call Deacon Joe and Lorraine Nicholas, 267-1501.