CLEARFIELD — At Thursday’s Clearfield County Conservation District meeting, it was announced that 877 non-perishable food items were donated at last Saturday’s Conservation Celebration at Curwensville Lake.
“This was the largest amount of item’s we have had donated in over 20 years of holding the Conservation Celebration,” said CCCD District Manager Willie Null.
Conservation Celebration visitors were granted free entry into Curwensville Lake with the donation of one non-perishable item per person.
“It’s great to be able to host a fun and educational family event, plus help area individuals in need,” said Null.
The donations were dropped off Monday morning by staff of CCCD, and much appreciated by the Clearfield Food Pantry.
“It was great,” said Robin Clark, Central Pennsylvania Community Action caseworker and food pantry manager. “Every year they (CCCD) bring more and more donations from the Conservation Celebration.”
The Clearfield Food Pantry is always in need of donations, however, they have a greater need now due to funding issues.
“The lack of a state budget means we have no money coming in from the state and we are struggling,” said Clark.
Donations of non-perishable food can be dropped off at the food pantry on Hammermill Road in Clearfield.
“We need fruit, peanut butter and jellies…well, we need just about everything,” said Clark. “We have a drop box in front of the building that item’s can be placed in when we are closed.”
Anyone that would like to make a financial donation is welcome to do so and can contact Clark at 814-577-8905.
“Last month alone, we served 658 families,” said Clark. “I just placed an order for milk, and it was over $1,000.”
Groups and civic organizations can help out the Clearfield Food Pantry by hosting food drives.
“We appreciate every donation we get, and make sure donations get to the people that need it,” said Clark.
In the fall, the food pantry will begin its holiday season food drive.
“Items associated with holiday dinners will be needed,” said Clark. “Baking supplies, stuffing, gravy mixes, broth, and egg noodles, are just some of the items we will be looking for.”
Dining and Cooking