Once again a pair of active civic groups and Bridgeport Fire Department will combine forces to canvas neighborhoods for donations in an effort to assist Shepherd’s Corner in its important mission to help local individuals in need.

 

“With everyone’s help, we will be able to stock their shelves with enough non-perishable foods, household supplies and personal care items to take them through the winter,” said Ruth Allen of GFWC Woman’s Club of Bridgeport. 

 

Members of GFWC Woman's Club, Bridgeport Lions Club and city firefighters will be making their way throughout the city the morning of Saturday, Oct. 21. Those contributing to the drive are asked to leave donations by their mailboxes or front door by 10 a.m. Alternatively, items can be dropped off at Bridgeport Fire Department or Bridgeport City Hall anytime this week – today through Fri., Oct. 20. Cash donations, which are used to purchase meat, butter, bread and milk, will also be accepted. Monetary donations can also be mailed to Shepherd’s Corner, P.O. Box 101, Bridgeport, WV 26330.

 

The drive is a perfect example of project proceeds going right back into the community. During the past eight months, Shepherd's Corner has distributed 110 food baskets which fed 248 people and doors of the Pennsylvania Avenue facility are open three days a week, during which time members of the public can pick up free clothing and so much more. 

 

 

 

In recent years, the community has been very generous, bringing  in enough non-perishable food items, cleaning supplies and personal care products to completely stock the shelves, said Mary Ellen Depue, volunteer coordinator. 

 

During Saturday's drive, volunteers will be stationed at Shepherd’s Corner to unpack and put donations away. Cub Scout Pack 39, Den 1 and local churches usually help with the project.