Civic Engagement Elevated: Voting and Giving Hand-in-Hand

Nov 3, 2024 at 9:51 AM
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, residents in the neighboring towns of Minisink, Greenville, and Wawayanda are seizing the opportunity to make a meaningful impact this Election Day. Alongside exercising their democratic right to vote, these civic-minded individuals are rallying together to support local families in need through a coordinated food drive initiative.

Nourishing Minds and Bodies: A Holistic Approach to Civic Engagement

Voting and Giving: A Powerful Combination

Recognizing the importance of both civic participation and community support, the residents of these three Western Orange County towns have embraced a dual mission on Election Day. While they will be casting their votes to shape the future of their local government, they will also be contributing to a food drive that will directly benefit families facing food insecurity.This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the town supervisors, has garnered widespread enthusiasm from the community. "We posted about the food drive and the other towns followed suit, which is great," explains Town of Minisink Supervisor Barbara Clifford. "I have developed a great Western Orange County rapport with (Greenville Supervisor) Dave Zubikowski and (Wawayanda Supervisor) Denise Quinn, and I am glad it worked out. We appreciate any generous donations for our Minisink families."

Strengthening Bonds, Nourishing Souls

The food drive initiative has not only provided an opportunity for residents to support their neighbors in need but has also fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among the three towns. By working together towards a common goal, the community has strengthened its bonds and demonstrated the power of collective action."This is a wonderful example of how local governments can come together to address the pressing needs of their constituents," says Zubikowski. "By combining our efforts, we are able to make a more significant impact and ensure that no family is left behind."

Nourishing the Community, One Donation at a Time

The designated donation sites at the voting locations in Minisink, Greenville, and Wawayanda will be accepting a variety of non-perishable food items, including boxed cereal, canned tuna, instant or canned potatoes, pancake mix and syrup, boxed macaroni and cheese, spaghetti and sauce, peanut butter and jelly, canned vegetables and fruit, rice, coffee, tea, and hot cocoa mixes.These essential items will be collected and distributed to local food pantries, ensuring that families in need can access the nourishment they require. "We are grateful for the generosity of our community members," says Quinn. "Every donation, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of those who are struggling to put food on the table."

Civic Duty Meets Compassion: A Powerful Synergy

By seamlessly integrating the act of voting with the act of giving, the residents of Minisink, Greenville, and Wawayanda are demonstrating a holistic approach to civic engagement. They are not only exercising their democratic rights but also embodying the values of compassion, empathy, and community support.This inspiring initiative serves as a model for other communities, showcasing how the simple act of donating non-perishable food items can amplify the impact of the democratic process. As voters cast their ballots, they can take pride in the knowledge that they are also contributing to the well-being of their neighbors, creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond the voting booth.