Boyertown Area Benefits from Successful Preston's Pantry Community Day

by Julie Cordingley   

Before the event happened, there was discussion of moving Preston’s Pantry Community Day further into the year.  As coordinator Diana Harner said, “The weather at the beginning of May is always so iffy.” However, giving it more thought, she realized, “May is also perfect. It honors Preston because his birthday is in the first week, and it honors his mom, Pamela, and unborn baby sister Evelyn, because it is close to Mother’s Day.” That is the reason for this day in the first place: to remember, honor, and fulfill a promise for the Dray family, whose simple legacy is helping others.

So on May 3rd, even though the weather was questionable,  families and friends came out to enjoy the day! The threatening rain did not stop the excited crowd from experiencing the carnival-like atmosphere complete with music, activities, and food. There was lots of face painting, balloon animals, and perfect pitches at the dunk tank, to go along with the French fries, cotton candy, and perogies. In addition, there were also Minions, games of strength, and raffles. One of the favorites for all ages was the petting zoo brought by Party Animals Express of Green Lane. The lively menagerie of pygmy goats, chickens, sheep, bunnies, ducks, and finally Toast, the potbellied pig, was more than happy to share the joy, especially if a snack or a head pat was 7 o'clock involved!

There were also quieter and more introspective places to enjoy the day. Near Boyertown’s Multi Service building, pictures of would - be angels could be taken with various sizes of life size wings as a backdrop. There was also the opportunity to artistically paint rocks and offer simple and heartfelt messages about the day and its meaning. These could then be added to the growing collection in Preston’s rock garden.

In the midst of the celebration was the realization that close to 400 families in the greater Boyertown area rely on Preston’s Pantry throughout the year. One person that takes that to heart is Jonathan Jarvis who donated an incredible 2,000 pounds of food himself. Jarvis, who works for a grocery store, admits he has an ‘insider's' view.’ He can see what is on sale and can quickly pick up large quantities at bargain prices…  and has been doing just that for a number of years. Diamond Credit Union was also more than happy to contribute 7,00 pounds of food to the cause. Overall, Preston’s community of family and friends, and local businesses donated an impressive 5,000+ pounds of food and over $2,000 in gift cards for raffle baskets. All participants have a hand in ensuring the continued success of one boy’s wish.

Thank you to the generous vendors:

Let Us Bounce, Dallas Fries, Birthday Buddies Inc., Mimzy’s Entertainment, Party Animals Express, Splitting Edge Axe Throwing of Pottstown, Bloomin' Balloons Decor and More, Professional Plus Services, Esjay Entertainment, Rental World, and DJ Tuck!

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