Fauquier FISH Grant Will Fund Christmas Dinner Baskets for Those in Need

December 15, 2016 — The Fauquier Health Foundation announced today that it has awarded a Make it Happen grant of $10,000 to Fauquier F.I.S.H. (for immediate sympathetic help) so that the organization can provide a full Christmas dinner for those in need while also upgrading the quality and nutritional value of food items in each basket. The organization of more than 30 volunteers helps those with urgent and unexpected needs throughout the community including families trying to get back on their feet. In addition, Fauquier FISH operates a Weekend Power Pack program in the county’s schools, a Food for Fuel program, and are currently developing an outreach program for seniors.

“We are so happy to be able to help this worthwhile organization in their efforts to provide quality, healthy nutritional food to those in need during the holidays,” stated Christy Connolly president and CEO of Fauquier Health Foundation. “Because of their efforts, many in Fauquier will have a Christmas dinner that they would not otherwise have and we’re delighted to be able to provide the healthy, quality items needed.”

Thanks to the Fauquier Health Foundation Make it Happen program, the baskets will include fresh or frozen items that in past years have been offered as canned (for example, fresh cranberries, fruit and potatoes). The items come in a sturdy basket that will be useful after the holidays. Approximately 220 families will receive the baskets which will feed approximately 1,760 people. Each basket contains enough food to feed the family receiving it, with leftovers afterwards. Registration to receive the baskets is underway and anyone in economic need will be considered. FISH has also received generous donations from Warrenton Baptist Church, The Bridge Community Church and Scouting for Food.

“We are thrilled to receive this award from the Fauquier Health Foundation. FISH has been working hard towards upgrading our entire food offerings across all of our programs. This grant allows us to continue that mission with our Holiday Food Baskets. The Fauquier Health Foundation feels the same way we do about the benefit of healthier food options, so this is a great partnership for this project,” added Charity Furness, Executive Director.