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LINK Announces 2008 Food, Coat and Toy Distribution Programs
LINK Announces Schedules Thanksgiving and Christmas Food, Winter Coats and Toy Distribution Programs
“And he sat down and called the twelve, and saith unto them, if any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant to all”. [Mark 9:35 KJV]
Events will occur on the following dates and locations:
November 22: Christ the Redeemer Catholic in Sterling and Trinity Presbyterian in Herndon will host the Food Distribution Programs from 8:00 AM until 4 PM.
November 22: Sterling United Methodist Church will host the Used Winter Coat Distribution Program from 8 AM until 4 PM.
December 20: Christ the Redeemer Catholic in Sterling and Trinity Presbyterian in Herndon will host the Food Distribution Programs from 8:00 AM until 4 PM.
December 20: Herndon United Methodist will host the Toy Distribution Program from 8 AM until 4 PM.
Since 1972 LINK Inc., an all volunteer-based non-profit Congressional Award winning organization has provided emergency support to individuals and families in crisis. LINK currently provides services to the citizens of Loudoun and Fairfax counties with a primary focus in the communities of Herndon, Sterling and Ashburn. Services offered by LINK include emergency food delivery, financial assistance, annual holiday basket programs and previous support for free health clinics. This past year LINK spent less than $4,000.00 on operating expenses. LINK retains no paid employees. Similar to the Gospel story of the loaves and fish LINK touched the lives of people 6,000 times with an annual budget of less than $50,000.00.
Fairfax and Loudoun are thought of by many to be the most prosperous counties in Virginia. However, there are still a significant number of residents in these counties living in poverty. During a July 2007 interview in the Loudoun Times-Mirror, LINK President Betty Eidemeyer stated, “In an average week there are about 30 volunteers taking calls, packing and delivering food to needy families, picking up baked goods from local stores and conducting other activities.” In 2007 LINK volunteers made emergency food deliveries to 612 homes representing 2,513 people. Grocery certificates totaling $11,700 were also distributed, enabling families to purchase additional food items at their local grocery store.
LINK’s holiday basket programs continue to be a huge success. During these events local residents pre-register and come to a LINK-designated location to shop for non-perishable food. Residents are guided through the aisles by volunteers and given the opportunity to select items their families would enjoy. The children who accompany their parents are often overjoyed when they can select their favorite box of cereal, can of fruit or a special treat. Offering families the opportunity to make their own selections requires a great deal of preparation, including the labor-intensive delivery and arrangement of food. Grocery carts are also brought to each site.
In 2007 LINK coordinated the efforts of 500 volunteers to pre-stage and support the event at four area churches. Thanks to their efforts, 867 families comprising over 4,500 people received a five-day supply of groceries – 49,000 lbs. of food – and $19,980 in grocery certificates. LINK also collected used winter clothing and in less than six hours distributed 510 used coats and sweaters. Three local newspapers, including the Herndon Observer, Loudoun Easterner and Loudoun Independent, coordinated toy drives in support of LINK and provided 2 toys to 1,200 children. In the past, the toy drives was so successful that LINK was also able to donate additional toys to local shelters, churches and social service programs.
One of the most unique aspects of LINK is its ability to bring together a myriad of groups to help achieve its mission. LINK is currently comprised of over one dozen churches of various denominations. In addition, LINK has built incredible community support and receives donations from local grocery stores and bakeries, 40 public schools, local newspapers and various local businesses.
It’s often the little things in life that can have the greatest impact on a person’s being. People in need of emergency services are often facing daunting challenges and feel very much alone. This is where LINK shines. When a resident comes to a holiday food program, they are warmly greeted by volunteers ready to assist them. Those who may feel embarrassed quickly realize that LINK volunteers are not there to judge but to serve. After making their selections, volunteers help load the groceries into the cars and wish them well. They no longer feel so alone and are now able to enjoy a holiday meal just as many others of us share with our families.
More information about these great events is forthcoming when all volunteer data is available. Please email Diana at diana@hamiltongroup.com if you have any immediate questions about volunteering. God bless our great communities!
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