In early October, Hugh Smyrl and Richard Hood visited LSS to propose a fundraising idea for Hugh’s birthday. All Hugh wanted for his birthday was to give back to families in need during the holiday season so they might enjoy a plentiful meal with their loved ones like he and Richard had growing up.
To make this happen, Hugh and Richard donated $4,000 to the LSS Food Pantry to honor Hugh's birthday. In hopes of creating an even more significant impact, Hugh, Richard, and LSS ran a donation match campaign throughout the last weekend of October. Hugh and Richard challenged their peers and community members of Jacksonville to help them make a difference in families' Thanksgiving dinners by matching their donations.
Their generosity was not overlooked, and throughout the weekend, other supporters of Hugh's birthday wish donated to LSS. Not only did the community match their donation goal, but they exceeded it! A total of $8,791 was raised to stock the pantry full of Thanksgiving items.
Not only did this support help, but supporters of LSS participated in spreading hope in the hearts of families during the holiday by conducting food drives and collecting holiday-themed food to be given out the Monday before Thanksgiving.
The Monday before Thanksgiving, LSS distributed all of the donated items for the upcoming holiday to over 100 local families. Additionally, gift cards were given out, allowing families to purchase essential items and brighten the season.
Several community partners conducted food drives to support the pantry this year. An outstanding 5,871 pounds of food was donated during this time, reminding us again how strong of an impact community partners can have together. USG donated 3,453 pounds, Tom Nehl donated 1,104 pounds, Grace Lutheran Church donated 572 pounds, First Federal Bank donated 317 pounds, the Salaam Club donated 325 pounds, and Campers RV donated 100 lbs. View photos of their food donations & volunteering at the Pantry below!
The smiles, gratitude, and hope shared by the families we served remind us of the difference we can make when we come together.
Hugh’s Birthday Wish Campaign wasn’t just about giving—it was about creating a ripple effect of compassion and care in the lives of those we serve. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this success. Thank you for making Hugh’s wish come true and helping us serve our neighbors. Together, we’ve shown the true spirit of community.
There is still time to get involved with LSS before the end of the year! If you would like to know how you can support our mission or positively impact the lives of those we serve, don't hesitate to contact us! Remember that a tiny act of kindness can start a chain reaction of good deeds that can spread throughout the community.
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