Banana boxes full of non-perishable food are distributed to each of the recipient families just in time for Christmas. Last year each family received three boxes. The process begins in August with the collection of 1,000 empty banana boxes from local markets. During the month of October, these boxes are dropped off at the Livonia public schools for their canned food drives. In November, the full boxes are picked up and transported to the Dickinson Center on Newburgh (across from Laurel Park Mall). Then, in early December the fun begins! Sorting and packing nights with friends and family.
Recipients come to the Dickinson Center to pick up their food and toys on December 20 and December 21. Goodfellows does not deliver the items.
Many volunteers are needed for this committee. There are a variety of activities that you can help with:
Moving banana boxes as needed - August 1 - December 1:
Picking up empty banana boxes from retailers and delivering to Dickinson Center
Delivering empty boxes to Livonia Schools during school hours
Picking up full boxes from Livonia Schools during school hours and delivering to Dickinson Center
Sorting, packing and loading canned goods - December 9 - 12:
Pre-sorting food items for packing - December 9 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Sorting canned goods - December 10, 11, and 12 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Loading food boxes into recipients' vehicles - Friday, December 20 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Loading food boxes into recipients' vehicles - Saturday, December 21 from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon
Full banana boxes are heavy and need to be moved around and lifted.
A message from Jim Hobart, the chair of the Food Department: The pre-sort and sorting evenings need the most people, and we have finished early because we have so much help. The pick-up days need the fewest people. By contacting me, this can be organized accordingly.
We value all who volunteer. Your participation ensures the future of Livonia Goodfellows. If you would like to stay connected, your name can be added to our membership list and receive E-mails about our coming events. Just ask me how.