Amateur radio donation impacts local food center during time of need

For the 17th year in a row, Portage County Amateur Radio Service (PCARS) has raised funds for the local food program, the Center of Hope, a program of Family & Community Services (FCS).

This year, their contribution has made an especially large impact, as the center faces struggles with rising food costs and increased need. The donation, which totaled $10,870, will be used to help with the center’s distribution that provides toys and food for Ravenna families this holiday season.

PCARS President Nick Wagner, and treasurer Greg Ash, were present for the check presentation, which was accepted by Anne Face, Associate Director of Family & Community Services, Inc. The donations were collected from club members and the community.

Each year, the Center of Hope assists hundreds of families in Portage County by providing hot meals five days a week through its congregate dining center, as well as emergency groceries through its choice pantry. Services are free of charge and dependent on an individual’s income.

“Our small community programs like the Center of Hope depend on local donors like PCARS. Their annual support helps make our programming possible and we thank them for their continued generosity,” said Mark Frisone, Executive Director of FCS.

For more information about the Center of Hope, visit www.fcsserves.org/program/center-of-hope, or Portage County Amateur Radio Services, visit www.portcars.org.