Brownwood News – The rain shortened some of the neighborhood parties during Tuesday’s National Night Out events, but Good Samaritan Ministries is extremely pleased with the response for the tuna drive.
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“When we saw the clouds begin to roll in, we were afraid that it would affect the number of people attending the parties which would limit participation in the tuna drive,” Executive Director Leesa Stephens said. “As local law officers begin to stop by and bring us the tuna they had collected, we quickly realized that we were going to have another great year.”
This year’s NNO tuna challenge netted 3381 cans.
“Most of donations came in Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning from the block parties,” Stephens said. “We also received donations from our partnerships with United Supermarket and Brookeshire’s.”
Aided by volunteers from the HPU Social Work Club, Stephens said that they counted the donations Tuesday as they came in.
“We really appreciate Sierra Spruill, club president and sponsor Dan Humenik for their work in helping us total the donations that came in, “Stephens said. “They helped us keep things organized when several officers showed up at the same time. They also built the tuna pyramids for our pictures.”
National Night Out is an event designed to let residents get to know their local police and sheriff departments. Good Samaritan Ministries has joined with these departments the past three years for the tuna drive.
“We so appreciate Chief Terry Nichols, Sheriff Vance Hill and Early Chief David Mercer for allowing us to be part of such an awesome community event,” Stephens said. “The tuna that was collected will help to feed families in all parts of Brown County. We are thankful that our local law officers are involved with helping so many in this area.”
The traveling Tuna Trophy will for the third straight year go the Yellow Rose Estates who collected 420 cans. United Supermarket was the corporate winner with 691 cans.
Good Samaritan Ministries can always use tuna in its Food Pantry ministry. If your neighborhood did not hold a party and you would still like to make a donation, go by 305 Clark Street to drop off your tuna or call 325-643-2273 for more information.