There were numerous exciting programs held for area children last summer at the Fontanelle Public Library and many of those were made possible by funds raised at the Soup and Sandwich Fundraiser that is held each March.
This year’s Soup and Sandwich Fundraiser is Monday, March 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fontanelle Community Center. Potato, vegetable and chili soups will be on the menu for a free will donation, accompanied by sandwiches, homemade desserts and a drink.
“Every year we try to pick something that the money [from this event] will go toward,” library director Melissa Menefee said. “Last year, we decided to use this for all our programs, which allowed us to get extra kids programs and adult programs, as well as the summer reading. Those programs can cost $400 for just 45 minutes and they’re not cheap.”
In addition to these programs, which included a visit from Des Moines’ Blank Park Zoo, the Science Center of Iowa, a magician, and more, the proceeds from last year’s Soup and Sandwich Supper helped allow the library to continue to stay current this year in the authors and titles they have on hand on the shelves.
“Everybody likes to read so many different authors,” Menefee said. “To have the authors the community wants, this is huge to help. We’ve also put money toward shelving.”
Menefee hopes the community comes out to support the library Monday as they have always done.
“Our desserts are homemade, nothing is store bought,” Menefee said. “Same with our soups and sandwiches. Those are put on by the board and staff. A lot of the coffee ladies provide the dessert. It’s always toward the end of March so you never know what the weather will be like, so soup a lot of times sounds good.”
