Update for November 24, 2020

These beautiful flowers graced the stage of the auditorium for the Thanksgiving at Kendal event.

On Sunday afternoon, the Kendal at Ithaca residents held their annual Thanksgiving at Kendal event. There is music, poetry and some traditional readings. However, the highlight of the event is the presentation of charitable donations to two local not-for-profit organizations selected by the residents. The fund drive began weeks ago, and Kendal residents once more demonstrated their generosity. Both organizations received checks for $10,000. The recipients were Loaves and Fishes and the Friendship Donations Network.

“Loaves and Fishes provides a place for nutritious meals, hospitality, companionship, and advocacy for those in need, regardless of faith, beliefs or circumstances. It is the county’s only community kitchen serving fee meals – nearly 4,800 each month. Loaves and Fishes relies heavily on volunteers who contribute over 1,250 hours per month. Further assistance comes from community financial support and generous gifts of food.”

“The Friendship Donations Network diverts over 1,000 pounds each day of good food from stores and farms that would otherwise go to landfills. The Network then provides food donations to hunger relief programs that serve more than 2,000 people a week. In addition, through its Network Food Hub program, local home gardeners can donate extra produce from their gardens. A model of efficiency, the Network is almost entirely volunteer-run.”

In this season of thanksgiving, we express gratitude for these organizations that tirelessly work to improve life for so many. Thank you.

Betsy Schermerhorn