Manna Storehouse honors members, volunteers at annual luncheon

February 23, 2008 11:39 am

— WEATHERFORD — Volunteers and Board Members of Manna Storehouse were honored recently at the organization’s annual luncheon held at Central Christian Church. Michael Patrick, outgoing president and director of operations, welcomed volunteers and expressed appreciation.
“As you all know, without our volunteers, we could not operate and would not even exist,” Patrick said to the more than 80 volunteers present. “Our organization is operated completely by volunteers who step in wherever they are needed.”
Manna has been in operation for more than 20 years, serving the needy in Parker County with food, clothing, furniture and household supplies, and utility and prescription assistance.
In 2007, Manna served more than 19, 500 clients from more than 5,500 Parker County families.
With funding from the United Way, local churches and individuals, and proceeds from the monthly garage sale, Manna spent over $135,500 last year to help those in need.
Manna’s monthly garage sale has a dual purpose, according to Patrick.
“The garage sale is our largest source of income, providing funds for utility and prescription help and for buying needed food from the Tarrant County Food Bank and local suppliers,” he said. “In addition, the garage sale provides a very inexpensive source of needed clothing and many other items to shoppers. A family can clothe a child for school in good clothing for a very small cost.”
The garage sale had a 9 percent increase in income over 2006. Donations from churches and individuals are also vital to Manna’s operation, with individual donations up 25 percent over 2006. Patrick expressed the Board’s appreciation for all public support.
Following the annual report, new officers and members of the board of directors were elected for the triennium.
Officers are: President, Ann Stevens; first vice president, John Good; second vice president, Rev. Richard Nelson; secretary, Catherine Smith; corresponding secretary, Lou Ann Doss; treasurer, Fama Patrick.
New members of the board of directors are Margaret Davis, Nancy Deison, John Kirkpatrick, Larry Mangrum and David Rothrock.
Incoming president, Ann Stevens, expressed her anticipation for leading the organization and closed the luncheon with Scripture and a benediction.