Grand Marais State Bank President Mike LaVigne was more than happy to present a $1,000 check to the Cook County Food Shelf to Gwen Lenz on behalf of the bank’s celebration of its 100-year anniversary celebration. The gift was greatly appreciated, said Lenz.
On Tuesday, October 4, the Cook County Food Shelf received a generous check of $1,000 from the Grand Marais State Bank. Presenting the gift to Food Shelf volunteer coordinator Gwen Lenz was Bank President Mike LaVigne
In giving thanks, Lenz said, “We distribute food to 125 families each month, and we are not supported by the state or city or any government whatsoever. We are supported entirely by gifts from individuals and from businesses that have a strong sense of community, so we appreciate this gift.”
“This donation is part of the way we are celebrating the bank’s 100th anniversary,” LaVigne said.
This gift wasn’t the only money the bank gave out during its recent festivities. A drawing was held, and the following people each won $100: Marsha Hansen, Grace Floe, Jana Berka, Jim Larsen, Val Groth, Carol Miller, Stan Nelson Jr., Paul Smith, Linda Walker, Aaron Davies, Elizabeth Martinez and Ashley Ross.
“It should be noted that Stan Nelson Jr. donated his winning check to the food shelf,” said LaVigne.
Currently, the food shelf, which is located in the basement of the First Congregational Church in Grand Marais at 300 West Second Street, is well stocked, said Lenz.
“But with winter coming on people’s heating bills go up and they have less money for food, and that’s when we can use more donations,” she added.
The food shelf could always use some more help, Lenz said. More volunteers are needed to assist with packing bags and boxes, and picking up groceries or helping with the distribution of food, she said, adding, “We will be happy to train anyone who wants to help out.”
In addition to distributing food, the food shelf also serves as a NAPS program for elders and a WIC small bag distribution site.
The food shelf is open every Monday (holidays included) from 3 to 5 p.m. and the first Wednesday night of each month from 5 to 7 p.m. Donations of food for people and pets are accepted at the shelter.
To volunteer, please call Jean Perkins at 387-2138 or Gwen Lenz at 387-9860.
Leave a Reply