This letter of thanks goes out to all who participated in this year’s annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning.
First and foremost, we thank both the Greater New Bedford Track Club (GNBTC) and Union Running from Fairhaven, for planning and coordinating this yearly run that helps out the Shepherd’s Pantry, located in Acushnet.
This year, Eric Tavares, the GNBTC President, asked me if it would be OK to donate some of the proceeds to SMEC, the Transitional Service Program that’s located on Bridge Street. This is where all the runners congregate on the morning of the race making it a perfect place to meet. I said, “Absolutely. A great idea.”
Second of all, a thank you to the over 575 folks who paid the entrance fee that totaled over $16,808, making this year a great success. And thanks to all of the generous sponsors and friends who realize the importance of the Shepherd’s Pantry and SMEC’s mission in helping out the area’s needs.
Also on the morning of the race, over 2,000 lbs. of non-perishables were donated and delivered to the pantry that morning.
I need to mention as well, on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, the annual motorcycle ride, sponsored by the Acushnet Lion’s Club and River’s End Cafe, delivered money, toys and non-perishable food to the pantry to be later handed out by our dedicated and loving volunteers.
Also, a big thank you, once again, to the Fairhaven Neighborhood News Newspaper Editor, Beth David, who took the time and energy to be on site, took pictures and wrote about it.
And Finally, the Millicent Library and the Stop & Shop Supermarket, both located in Fairhaven, and the Acushnet Library, will continue to accept non-perishable food year round that will eventually go to the pantry for distribution.
If you want to make a contribution to the pantry, please send it to P.O. Box 760, Fairhaven, MA 02719. Together we can make a difference in people’s lives.
Happy Holidays and God bless.
Gerry Payette, Director/Shepherd’s Pantry
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