People for People program provides vital services

People for People was established in Thermopolis in 1988 and has flourished because of the amazing community support shown to the organization, making it possible for them to help feed our community members.

Originally started by members of the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, the organization now involves multiple community groups who volunteer to prepare the meals.

The People for People organization purchases all the needed food and supplies, and then each week, one of the groups prepares the Sunday meals. On average, there are usually 90 meals prepared each Sunday.

"I don't know how we would do it without the volunteers," said People for People organizer Judy Carswell. "They never complain. Some have volunteered for over 30 years."

Volunteers are extremely important to the success of meals provided by People for People. Not only do they give their time, they often give their own financial support. They are always accepting additional volunteers. Current volunteers come from a variety of community members including groups of friends, churches, youth groups and other organizations.

Sunday meal deliveries also serve as a way for People for People volunteers to check on their fellow community members and offer companionship, even if only for a short time.

The group also prepares, delivers and serves meals on some holidays. On Thanksgiving Day, volunteers prepared a total of 276 meals. About 70 meals were served in person, with the rest being delivered.

People for People is holding a raffle fundraiser to replenish funds to be able to continue to offer community meals on Sundays and holidays.

Organizer Judy Carswell said, "Over the years we have had the Tour of Home's fundraiser to try to earn money to provide meals for this program. Now more than ever, we need to raise more funds."

Carswell continued and said, "We are providing more meals every weekend and on holidays than we ever have this year. We are raffling a vintage blow mold nativity set with a manger and stable."

The nativity set is on display in the front window at Hazel-n-Pearl's.

Tickets are five dollars each or five for $20. The drawing will be on December 7 at 7 p.m. at Broadway Bakery. Tickets will be drawn by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Tickets can be purchased from Judy Carswell 307-921-8264, Ranae Baldes 307-921-1837 or the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. Tickets will also be available at Hazel-n-Pearl's December 5-7.