Block of Bucks Sets Record

Block of Bucks has been an annual fundraising tradition in the community for many years. Organized by a committee within the local Soroptimist International to raise funds that helps eligible area families purchase winter clothing and outwear for their children, this year was no different, even with recent changes in shopping options.

On Dec. 6, volunteers of various ages and from area organizations stood at the intersections in front of the post office and D&G collecting funds from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., on a mild December day. By the end of the day, a total of $38,783.28 was collected. The amount raised this year set a new record, beating last year’s record of $37,631. “The community is just wonderful,” stated Monica Garten, who was the chair of the committee who organized this year’s event.

The next day on Dec. 7, eligible families and a team of volunteers shopped at participating businesses to get the necessary clothing needed to stay warm this winter. According to Garten, LuLaRue/Carla Swenson, Red Barn, Shippwrecked and Busy Bee Embroidery were set up at the Elks, while D&G, Little Campers, Thistle and Thread, Markles, Albertsons and Reynolds welcomed the families and volunteers through their doors.

One merchant missing from this year’s event was Shopko, which closed earlier this year. Shopko was a big supporter of the program and provided clothing necessities such as underwear and socks. “Everything went the way it was supposed to. However, we missed Shopko in regard for underwear and socks. Little Campers did order underwear but it didn’t get here in time,” said Garten.

Due to the generosity of donations which resulted in a record amount donated, excess funds were left over after the shopping day concluded. According to Gerten, the plan is to use those funds throughout the school year on any children who may have missed this year’s event.