The SCILL Center made quite an impact on the shelves of the Starke County Food Pantry during their food drive held last month. Director Jerry Gurrado said they raised a total of 500 pounds for the pantry through their Car Care Clinic and through the assistance of students and staff, as well as several local businesses who decided to join in on the effort.
Gurrado explained that they received a financial contribution from First Farmers Bank in Knox, and Save A Lot donated a massive amount of canned goods as well. Gurrado said it was a very touching moment when they delivered the quarter-ton of goods to the pantry.
“We all got hugs, and there were a lot of tears all the way around. It was good for our guys, and it was a good reinforcement for me too, for stuff that people don’t have and how much it means when you are able to give,” said Gurrado. “And on top of that, First Farmers has been a partner with us for the last three or four years in this food drive in that they always give a financial contribution that we’re able to give to the food bank in their name, and that way the food bank can purchase perishables.”
The donations filled up two large vehicles. The pantry is now not only better-stocked thanks to the effort of the SCILL Center and its students, but they also have the funds to purchase milk, cream, eggs, and countless other perishable items to keep their shelves stocked.
Gurrado said he is proud of his students and tips his hat to the donors, without whom this effort would not have been possible.
