By Peggy Sue McRae, Journal contributor.

As we approach the last big hurrah of summer, islanders take measure of the year’s bounty bringing together their canned goods, baked goods, prize produce, quilts, livestock, works of art and of course supercharged zucchinis at the San Juan County Fair.

Like last year the San Juan Island Community Foundation will be at the Fair helping local non-profits raise much-needed funds. We hope you will consider helping the Mullis Center reach our 2023 fundraising goal of $5000 or more.

This year’s donations will support the San Juan Island Senior Nutrition Program – Meals on Wheels and More, which provides nutritious home-delivered meals and a friendly check-in to homebound seniors 3 times a week, along with supplemental frozen meals for non-delivery days as needed. Meals are available to qualified clients on a strictly donation basis.

The Meals on Wheels and More program also includes Senior Community Meals served on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Mullis Center for a suggested donation of $5 for those over 60. Younger folk are welcome to join for a very affordable $8.50. This year has seen a dramatic up tic in the number of meals provided. As our island community continues to age, more and more of our friends and neighbors are relying on this service. Every donation big or small helps this valued program. This year the Community Foundation will match the first $1,000 raised and donations will continue to be added even after our goal is met.

The Meals on Wheels model relies on volunteer drivers which is a good way to get to know your island community while providing a valued service. If you are interested in helping out, Anna tells me she will be at the Community Foundation booth at the Fair on Thursday from 1 – 2:30 p.m. Swing by for a chat. Otherwise, you can contact the Mullis Center at 360-378-2677.

The Mullis Center is also happy to encourage your support in donations to Mullis Campus partners Island Rides and the Family Resource Center.

Enjoy the Fair! Take in the musical performances, explore the food court, admire the horses and be charmed by baby goats, and if you are able please make a contribution. Your support will help to ensure that our Senior Nutrition program will stay strong into the future.