Pine Island Food Pantry thanks volunteers at luncheon
A special luncheon was held at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church Monday morning to thank all the volunteers for their hard work and dedication to the Pine Island Food Pantry.
President Dave Grueser said the 40 volunteers who provide their time for the Food Pantry are fantastic and are always willing to help when they can.
Father Michael Hughes said he is always amazed by how many cars pull up to the pantry, as well as the families who are in general need of support.
“This is our principal outreach for the community,” he said of the Food Pantry. “Thank you all. We support you.”
As a thank you for those who have supported the Food Pantry in its success, Grueser provided Hughes and Dee Santo, co-director of Winn-Dixie, with a service award plaque before lunch was served.
“We are a family store and we are glad to support you guys,” Santo said after accepting the award.
Hughes accepted the award on behalf of the Catholic Church for “their support of the Pine Island Food Pantry since 1991.”
Santo accepted the award on behalf of Dan Loughren, the manager of Winn-Dixie.
“Dan is one of the hardest working guys I have ever seen,” Grueser said, adding that they really appreciate the support Winn-Dixie provides the Food Pantry.
A total of 117 turkeys and fixings were provided to those in need, so they could have a Thanksgiving feast. On the Monday before Thanksgiving, 124 clients were served.