To the editor:

Church & Community Program will turn 50 this year, so we’re celebrating as often as possible. We want to thank everyone who helped put the “fun” into our annual fundraising bowling tournament, held on April 20 at Ogdensburg Bowl.

CCP board member James Sieja, who initiated and organized this successful event, signed up seven eager teams this year.

Thank you to the kind-hearted bowlers who chose not to accept their winnings and to all the people who sponsored players. Together they raised $1,400 for CCP’s busy food pantry, not-for-profit thrift shop, and other programs that help neighbors in need.

Thank you also to Ogdensburg Bowl proprietor Ty Smith, Sr. and his staff for accommodating us so nicely, and for providing free bowling shoes for everyone. Our teams and spectators had a wonderful time.

We very much appreciate everyone’s support for this event, and throughout the year. With help from the community, churches, businesses, schools, and individuals, our pantry serves about 500 people each month from the Towns of Canton, DeKalb, Hermon, Lisbon, Russell and the Village of Heuvelton.

Our holiday Giving Tree Program and annual Back to School Program additionally serve hundreds of children and their families. Our Second Chance clothes shop offers excellent quality clothing at very low prices and free to those in need. To learn more about our programs or volunteering with us, stop in at 30 Court Street in Canton. We’re here from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Connie Jenkins

Director, Church & Community Program, Canton