news article
135,000 pounds of potatoes ‘dropped’ by UMM
November 10, 2014 / By Beth DiCocco / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Upper New York United Methodist Men, in conjunction with the Society of St. Andrew, held Potato Drops at three locations around the Conference and distributed 135,000 pounds of potatoes to food pantries, service groups and individuals.
Unloading potatoes at the Nov. 1 drop in Campville. Photo courtesy of John Conklin.
The potatoes are delivered in 50-pound bags; the cost of the potatoes and transportation is covered by the Society of St. Andrew, paid for by grants and donations.
The UMM contacts food pantries, feeding ministries, nonprofits and others around the area of the drop to gauge need and make arrangements for pickup. Individuals can also receive potatoes.
This year's drops took place on:
Loading potatoes at the Nov. 8 drop at the West Schuyler UMC. Photo by Beth DiCocco
- Saturday, Oct. 25, 2014 at the Auburn UMC (Finger Lakes District)
- Saturday, Nov. 1, at the Hanafin Marine parking lot in Campville (Binghamton District)
- Saturday, Nov. 8, at the West Schuyler UMC (Mohawk District)
Each site distributed about 900 bags or 45,000 pounds of potatoes.
While watching as members loaded trucks at the West Schuyler UMC, Upper New York UMM President Mark Jones said: "Look at the guys that came out. It's such a blessing. It's God working."