It’s time to start emptying out your pockets and searching under the couch cushions in anticipation of the GFWC Bridgeport Junior Woman’s Club Annual Penny Auction.  The family friendly event will be held 1 p.m. Sunday, March 9 at the Benedum Civic Center. 

 

“The event raises funding for the club, which supports local families, programs, and students as well as state, national and international programs,” said organizer Krista Arnold.  “ Our focus is on issues pertaining to education, conservation, leadership, domestic violence, child advocacy, the arts and international outreach.”

 

Locally, the GFWC Bridgeport Junior Woman’s Club supports students through programs such as HOBY, Boys State, and international travel opportunities.  They also give scholarships to local girls and provide personal items and winter wear to students in need.  Supporting local families in crisis is of vital importance to the members and they support local missions and organizations by donating both their time and their resources.

 

The Penny Auction, held each year, allows participants to purchase a “bidding  cup” and then toss in a few pennies if they want to bid on prizes donated by local businesses.  The prizes typically include gift cards for local stores, gift certificates for services in our community and free dinners at local establishments.  Gift baskets, movie passes, home goods, jewelry and more will be available for bidding at the auction.  They will also have a 50/50 raffle on site.

 

“You can bring your own pennies or “buy” pennies at the auction.  Snacks and drinks can also be purchased at the event,” said Arnold.  All proceeds go to support worthy causes such as those listed above, as well as international causes such as military family support, third-world country support and education, and supporting the NURU project which ensures clean water internationally.