HERKIMER, N.Y. – Every holiday season for the past 20 years, the Herkimer County Hunger Coalition has donated to local food pantries to help those in need. This year, they’ve started a Christmas Memorial Donation program, donating $500 to three organizations in the names of people who made a difference in the community.
Franco’s in Ilion received one of the donations, and owner Dan Mendez says the funds will be used for the restaurant’s homework club.
"Without the donations and people helping us we wouldn't be able to do what we do. I'm only one person but it takes a community to raise a community, so if it wasn't for everybody else, half these programs and everything I do wouldn't be possible," said Mendez.
The Generals’ Cupboard food pantry at Herkimer County Community College and Operation Sunshine were the other two recipients of the holiday donations.
