By Karen Boeck
We at St. Elizabeth Seton, SVdP wanted to let our parish know how much we appreciate their lasting financial support! Instead of our fundraiser of last year, which was a whole lot of fun, we turned to a “Thank you, Appreciation Event.” On February 4th, we invited those who support our monthly shoebox to a light dinner of Chili, cornbread, condiments, drinks, and cookies. The hall was decorated as a Mardi Gras party with over 35 crockpots of different chilis cooked, donated, and served by our members. Entries were labeled as mild, warm, and hot, with small samples to test, and bowls for all to try.
We had a huge bake sale, with members bringing their favorite recipes. The items were priced at $5, $10, and $20, with a wonderful variety. Interesting – an anonymous caller called in a $1,000 donation for member Donna Corea’s pumpkin bread!!
A 50/50 raffle was in process, live light music was presented by Rolf Benson and Rene Casasnovas, and auction items of dinners – an India menu dinner from Father David for eight, – and a prime rib dinner for six by member Liz Quade and husband Bill. In addition, we had a silent auction for a golf basket, a football/baseball basket, and a spa basket. A NASCAR Racing Bundle package was also auctioned. With all the activity, our members were everywhere, ready to help in any way they could.
We enjoyed meeting and talking with our parishioners that attended. Our president described the crisis year many of our neighbors have experienced with housing evictions and utility shut offs. Many with financial problems were able to hang on to their homes with help from our charity; many received food to help them over a tough period. Without our generous parishioners, we would not have been able to help these neighbors in need. We hope that our parishioners enjoyed our “Thank You Party” and will continue to support us in the wonderful way they have for years. Thanks be to God!
