Food bank campaign hits the bricks
The Greater Washington County Food Bank, which has launched a fundraising campaign for its new headquarters and distribution center, is moving into the second phase of its effort since announcing its $1.1 million purchase June 29 of the former Country Fresh Market in Centerville Borough.
According to a news release from GWCFB, it received nearly $10,000 in contributions from a VIP Beach Party held July 30 at The Meadows Racetrack & Casino.
During the event, the food bank said it also received commitments of contributions of $50,000 from Southpointe-based AccuTrex Products and $100,000 from UPMC.
The food bank’s goal is to raise $500,000 by Sept. 30, although it will continue to raise money after its move to the new site along Route 40.
During the event at The Meadows, guests, which included county and local officials, had the opportunity to mingle with former Pittsburgh Steelers Rocky Bleier, Mel Blount, J.T. Thomas and Louis Lipps.
GWCFB also raised money for its new building with a Chinese auction filled with sports memorabilia donated by the casino and a 50/50 raffle.
The next fundraising initiative for GWCFB’s new building is the “Wall of Hope” brick campaign, in which individuals and businesses can personalize a 4-inch-by-8-inch brick for $200 or a 12-inch-by-12-inch granite tile for a $1,000 donation. All will be displayed at the entrance to the 24,500 square-foot facility, which will distribute canned goods, produce and meat to the food bank’s 44 pantries around the county that serve 5,400 families a month.
GWCFB also will hold an open house at the new location on Oct. 17.
To purchase a brick or for more information about the open house, contact Kelly Backo at GWCFB at 724-229-8175 or donorrelationscoordinator@GWCFB.org.