The Channel Marker serves over 600

By Nicholette Carlson
Staff Writer

FEEDING THE HUNGRY — During the food giveaway at The Channel Marker Wednesday, April 29, volunteers from Vineyard Community Church helped to hand out meals. Pictured is Derek Coy unloading boxes filled with the salads and dinner rolls while Amanda Harstine collects meals to pass out to cars in line. (Photo by Nicholette Carlson)

Another local food giveaway at The Channel Marker helped to feed hundreds in Syracuse and the surrounding communities.

A group of generous residents donated enough money in a partnership with The Channel Marker to prepare 600 meals to give away. The giveaway was scheduled to start at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 29. However, with cars lining up starting around 2 p.m., meal distribution began around 3:10 p.m. At just five minutes before 4 p.m., the 600 meals had been distributed. Steve Johnson, owner of The Channel Marker, chose to continue to serve those who were already in line. This resulted in 656 meals given away by 4:15 p.m.

The menu Wednesday consisted of island grilled chicken, smashed red potatoes, salad with dressing and a roll with butter.

Those who volunteered to serve the meals were from Vineyard Community Church, Syracuse. They all wore gloves and facemasks to ensure everyone’s safety. Inside helping to package meals were some younger volunteers: Brooke Johnson, Callie Johnson and Kennedy Wronka.