Press releases

‘Meal’ helps Martin County’s poor

PRESS RELEASE DATE: Nov. 13, 2008

House of Hope’s “Meal or No Meal” Poverty Potluck Dinner on Nov. 7 was the most successful in the event’s three-year history – just when it’s needed most.

Meal or No Meal not only serves as a fund-raiser for House of Hope, but it also raises awareness about the extent of poverty in Martin County. With the economy in a persistent downward spiral since 2006, thousands have joined the ranks of the “working poor” and unemployed.

The event, held at St. Mary’s Parish Life Center in Stuart, raised nearly $60,000 to help House of Hope provide food, clothing, and emergency financial assistance to Martin County’s poor. A major boost came from the Ponsoldt family, who pledged to match up to $25,000 of the event’s proceeds.

Dinner was prepared and served by volunteers from area churches and reflected the menus of the community kitchens that operate in Martin County. Participating churches were St. Mary’s Episcopal, Redeemer Lutheran, Hobe Sound Community Presbyterian, St. Joseph Catholic and St. Martin De Porres Catholic.

Major corporate sponsors included Awareness Technology, Seacoast National Bank and Senior Home Companions. Further sponsors, donors, about 280 attendees and a silent auction also contributed to the event’s success. The St. Joseph School Jazz Band provided entertainment and impressed the guests.

For more information about House of Hope, please call (772) 286-4673 or visit www.hohmartin.org.