As the month of February slips away, the Corona virus pandemic continues.  Although it is reported to be getting better there is still a lot of sickness and death.  It seems that we are fortunate here in our area to be able to get the vaccine and hopefully it will conquer this monster soon.

 

The pandemic has affected most families, mostly financially and next to actually getting the virus the financial effect is very hard on families.  Although we have received stimulus checks, this cannot compensate for the loss of wages.

 

The Progressive Women's Association of Harrison County has listed on its mission, to help those in need in our community.  For many years, the PWA has maintained a Food Pantry at its location at 305 Washington Avenue. For many years, the PWA has had fundraisers to support the Food Pantry. 

 

Now that the demand has doubled and due to the fact that we cannot have fundraisers we are at the mercy of the community to support the pantry. Most of our local grocery stores donate food and we are able to get food from the Mountaineer Food Bank once a month.  Volunteers, along with our director, Elinda Carson and our maintenance man, Dave Greynolds, are able to pass out food on Thursday and Friday of each week.  We suggest you call early in the week and an appointment will be made for you to pick up your order.  Many local clubs and church groups donate food to help keep the inventory up.

 

The PWA maintains a food closet on the front porch of the building with food in it for homeless individuals.  It is also recommended that anyone wanting to donate toward this project just drop off their donations in the closet.  It is always open.

 

Last year we identified another project and opened a pet pantry to supply food for individuals with pets. We work with local pet stores who donate pet food and supplies to us weekly.  Betty Waddy picks these supplies up each week.

 

We encourage individuals and local civic groups and churches to donate either food or money to the PWA to ensure that those in need will be able to be served by the pantry.  For more information about donating or to be a recipient of a food order call 304-624-6881.

 

The PWA members are planning an Easter Bake Sale the week before Easter.  Place your order for Easter Bread by calling the PWA.  Once again, we were able to get Fiesta bowls donated and they will be sold with Easter goodies.  There is a limited number so be sure to place your order early.

 

The PWA is staging a membership drive and encourages members to pay their dues and opens their doors to anyone interested in joining the group.  Dues are $25.00 a year and can be mailed to 305 Washington Ave. our goal is to receive 25 members by May 1.

 

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all my Irish friends, especially Pat Kelley.

 

Stay warm, stay healthy and until next week “Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine.”