Fundraiser will help fight hunger

"This will be the ninth (craft show)," said Kathy Geltz, one of the organizers of the annual Leola United Methodist Church Maker's Market, who noted that the name was changed to recognize the work of the many creative vendors who take part.

This year's event will be held at the church, 7 W. Main St., Leola, on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 9 a.m. to noon. Geltz expects to have a number of vendors selling a variety of items, and there will be lunch items and baked goods for sale.

Among the many handmade and creative items organizers hope to have on display will be jewelry (such as clay earrings and bracelets), dish scrubbies and washcloths, crocheted towels, dog and cat treats, ornaments, magnets, blankets, scarves, etched nightlights, homemade cards, seashell art, watercolor and acrylic paintings, button art, needle felting pictures, coasters, and fluid art. Candy and plants will also be sold.

Food items that will be offered for purchase will include sub sandwiches and a variety of baked goods.

Last year, market organizers offered a free make-and-take craft activity. The little owl the children made proved so popular, this year youngsters will have an opportunity to make a similar item. "They will make a mouse with a candy cane tail and a pom-pom nose," said Geltz, who noted that the craft table for children will be open from 10 to 11 a.m.

All funds raised by the market will benefit Rise Against Hunger, which provides meal kits for people around the world. The plan is for the church to sign up to take part in a packing event where stations would be set up to fill kits with items such as rice, dried vegetables, and vitamins. According to Geltz, Rise Against Hunger targets remote communities where hunger pockets exist. The church will need to raise $4,000 to take part in the event. "Rise recognizes that hunger will not end without creating a global movement," Geltz quoted from the organization's literature. "We are hoping to raise enough to pack bags next fall," she added.

Readers who would like more information may visit http://www.leolaumc.com, email leolaumc@gmail.com, or call 717-656-7600.