The 10^th Annual Tablescapes luncheon was held at Pell City First United Methodist Church to benefit the Christian Love Pantry and Lakeside Hospice raising over $16,400. 

Over 304 people were in attendance, sitting at tables elaborately decorated by local charitable groups, individuals, and businesses.

Table decorations were voted on by attendees. The First place winner was table number two decorated by Bonnie Gray and the second place winner was table number one, decorated by employees of Metro Bank.

The Pell City Show Choir Showstoppers performed their sing and dance routine, “Songs of the Night.” 

“Thank you for supporting two wonderful non-profit organizations,” said Bit Thomason, volunteer and community service coordinator for Lakeside Hospice.

Both organizations, The Christian Love Pantry and Lakeside Hospice, split the proceeds of the benefit luncheon, this year each receiving $8,200. 

“2018 was a very good year for us,” said Alan Foster, Executive Director of The Christian Love Pantry. “We fed 2900 families, over 7700 people, providing over six tons of food a month and 72 tons of food a year to those in need in the community. One-third of the people we provide for are children and around 18 percent are over the age of 60.”

Foster also stated they gave away 100 boxes of food at Easter, sponsored by Dr. Aultman; 200 boxes of food at Thanksgiving sponsored by First Baptist Church of Pell City; and gave away 32 tons of food at Christmas to any families in the area in need.

“Everything has a cost except two things,” Foster stated. “We provide the food absolutely free and we are a 100 percent volunteer organization. When you give, that is to feed the hungry mouths of St. Clair County.”

Paul Garing, Executive Director of Lakeside Hospice, told attendees about the services his faith-based, non-profit organization provides to families.

“We are here to provide quality care and give peace of mind for individuals to enjoy their final days regardless of their ability to pay,” stated Garing. 

Lakeside Hospice is currently serving 185 terminally ill patients, 85 percent of whom are home to be with family, neighbors, and in familiar surroundings. 

“Last year, we had over 3600 hours of volunteer service, which would have cost $100,000,” said Garing. “Our respite care works help with anything they can to put patients in ease in comfort.” 

Lakeside Hospice offers pain management, medical care, spiritual and psychological needs, music therapy, massage therapy, support groups, pet relocation and access to 24/7 nursing.

“These people [staff] care,” said Garing. “They love doing and being there for people in their final hours.”

For more information on the Christian Love Pantry, visit their Facebook page at The Christian Love Pantry. For more information about Lakeside Hospice, visit www.lakesidehospice.org.