By Sue Moore
Generous Hands is exactly what its name implies. The organization gives to children in need in the way of food and even emotional support to families in the Vicksburg school system and beyond. Each year the founders of Generous Hands, Inc. ask for help from the community to further its mission in the form of its Fall Extravaganza fundraiser.
This event has grown since it was organized some eight years ago. Organizers were volunteers at Lakeland Reformed Church on Sprinkle Road. The fundraiser was held in the church activity room. It is now a full-fledged dinner at Indian Run Golf Course on Saturday, November 3, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The program and dinner is at 6 p.m. and will be prepared by Chef Joe Tsui.
Tickets are $35 each for dinner with a 50/50 raffle, door prizes and a silent auction as part of the festivities. Only 180 tickets will be sold for the event, according to Darci Schimp, the event’s coordinator and volunteer dietitian.
Proceeds from the extravaganza help support coupons given for fresh fruit and vegetables at the Vicksburg Farmers Market. Monthly Family Fare vouchers go to families who receive these benefits all year long, according to Sheri Louis, executive director. “We pay Spartan Stores between $3,000 and $4,000 monthly for Family Fare vouchers that can be used for bread, milk, eggs, fruits and vegetables.”
So far, Generous Hands has distributed $3,238 in Vicksburg Farmers Market coupons this summer. They are used for vegetables, fruit, meat and cheese at the market. “These vouchers and Farmers’ Market coupons are truly appreciated by our clients. It is the only way we can get fresh foods to them,” Louis commented. “Our numbers are over 250 students, over 100 families, already for this school year. The numbers increase daily.”
Pat Moreno, former principal of Sunset Lake school, will speak about how Generous Hands began and how it impacted her students while she was the principal. She will share some experiences on whom the program has benefited in the community as well.
Those wishing to pick up tickets can contact Sheri Louis at 370-7965. She will have tickets at the office at 606 Spruce Street in Vicksburg, but it’s best to call ahead to make sure that she’s available. She can accept cash or a check. Tickets may be reserved and picked up at the Will Call booth at Indian Run on November 3. They will accept cash, check or charge cards for silent auction purchases too.