The picnic got off to a bumpy start as the site was accidentally double-booked and the party had to be relocated to a spot with less amenities, like barbeques and electrical plug-ins. But if anyone knows how to be flexible and “make it work,” it’s a group of gleaners!
The picnic came together after a barbeque was bought and one was borrowed. The grills were fired up and more than 300 hamburgers and 400 hot dogs were served to 300 attendees that included donors, volunteer, gleaners, and adoptees.
Kids had a great time playing games, and prizes were given for best dessert and side dish. A large amount of frozen green beans were donated, so there was a special prize for best green bean dish.
LBFS Gleaning and Volunteer Programs Coordinator Susan James handed out certificates and flowers to some long-time members, including one who lives in an assisted living facility and another who was in a car accident recently but still came.
A certificate was presented to the son of Helen Cleveland, a member and officer of the first LBFS gleaning group, which was started in the early 80’s. Sadly, Helen passed away a week before the picnic. She had really been looking forward to going.
Said James, “For many of the long-time gleaners, the picnic is a time to connect with each other.”
Linn Benton Food Share is a CSC Program. For more information or to get involved with the gleaning program, contact Susan James at sjames@communityservices.us.
