A generous donation will give a lift to Cobleskill-Richmondville’s backpack program, which aids needy families in the district.
The Beard’s Hollow Society recently gave $1,000 to C-R specifically for the program.
The Society maintains Beard’s Hollow Church, which stands on Beard’s Hollow Road at the Summit-Richmondville town line.
The church holds services only in August and has a loyal congregation that not only maintains the historic building but also keeps an eye out for the community.
Money raised every year goes to the church’s upkeep. Funds left over go to good local causes.
In recent years, the congregation painted the church, fixed the bell tower and removed trees on the grounds, so work this year was minimal.
“It was a particularly good year for donations and a light year for repairs,” said Scott Barton, the Society’s treasurer.
Donations often go to food pantries and did this year, too. But one member of the board of trustees was enthused about the backpack program, and other trustees agreed.
“It’s a different avenue, reaching a specific need,” Mr. Barton said. “It reaches children who need food.”
C-R’s backpack program started several years ago at Radez School and has spread to other schools.
School staffers buy food and other supplies for families identified as being in need. On Fridays, students take the backpack home to help their families through each weekend.
The C-R school board accepted the donation with thanks at its August 28 meeting.
“The Cobleskill-Richmondville district and more importantly the students who benefit the most from the donation are forever grateful for the generosity of the congregation.
“Organizations like the Beard’s Hollow Society are what make communities survive and thrive, and in tough economic times, and we are most appreciative of them thinking of our students.”
The Beard’s Hollow Society donated a total of $5,000 this year, Mr. Barton said. Other donations went to food pantries and similar causes.