A few weeks ago, the Canastota Community Chest started their mail campaign to raise $35,000 in their local fundraising effort. The money raised will stay local to provide services to Canastota area residents through 19 different non-profit organizations.
“Our steering committee for the Community Chest is really small,” said President Penny Stevens, “but the generosity of our community is what really makes this effort work.”
The money is raised in the fall and then distributed to the agencies in early 2018. The need each year continues to rise. Several months ago, the steering committee met with each of the agencies to learn of the services provided to Canastota area families. The agencies include the Canastota Children’s Council, Loaves and Fishes, Ride for Life Equine & Family Center and many others.
The needs the fund fills are many and very different. One of the newest agencies is the Compassion Connection Food Pantry. Since 2005, this outreach from a local church, has provided emergency food and assistance. Last year alone, nearly 1,300 households were assisted.
The Canastota Children’s Council is hoping that the money raised from the Community Chest drive this year will assist them in funding their summer enrichment program and a drama program. Another agency, Community Action of Madison County will use their appropriation for their mentoring program for children, age 8 – 16. In this program, at-risk kids are paired with community mentors to provide one on one positive relationships for the children. Help Restore Hope Center, a part of Liberty Resources, will use their portion of the funds to help combat domestic violence.
A gift to the Community Chest, in any amount, is of great help to the area. Once a year, each of us has a chance to make a difference in the lives of people our area. The Community Chest volunteers believe we all have a responsibility to the community where we live and work. Through our support of Community Chest, we will spark positive change in the lives of our friends, family members and ourselves. Locally, the Community Chest uses volunteers to keep administrative costs down; invests in programs that demonstrate visible, measurable results; keeps your contribution right here in our community to help local people; and allows you to help invest in many programs with your one gift.
Donations may be mailed to the Canastota Community Chest, P.O. Box 9, Canastota, N.Y. 13032. The Canastota Community Chest is a non-profit, 501 ( C ) 3 organization. Donations are tax deductible.