For about 10 years, MaryLou Neidig has worked with the kitchen crew to serve food at the Wesley Church Craft Fair, a fundraiser that has been held since 2011. Neidig likes that funds raised by the food sales benefit those in need in the community. "We provide food, but the profit goes to help other people," said Neidig. "When you give, you always get back." 

This year's craft fair will be held at the church, 1104 Kirkwood Pike, Quarryville, on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Co-chaired by Bonnie Aukamp and Julie Walton, this year's event will feature more than 50 crafters, door prizes donated by vendors, and breakfast and lunch items for purchase.

"It is always exciting to see what creative items people make," shared Aukamp, who noted that with the high number of crafters taking part, a large variety of items will be available for shoppers to peruse and purchase. Among the vendors will be those selling artwork, upcycled crafts, kitchenware, wood crafts, knitted and sewn items, jewelry, and items especially for pets. Plants and baked goods will also be sold. "New this year will be a Kids Corner, (which) will feature various items for sale made by kids," reported Aukamp. Vendor participation fees benefit Wesley Church's discretionary fund.

Food items that will be available for purchase include coffee, doughnuts, breakfast sandwiches, and a crispy potato side dish. Among the lunch items available will be chicken corn soup, which is also sold by the quart; hot dogs; and beverages.

Those who attend the craft fair are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to be donated to the Solanco Neighborhood Ministries' food bank. Attendees may also donate items of winter clothing, such as hats and gloves, for the church mitten tree.

Funds raised by food sales will benefit the Solanco Neighborhood Ministries' food bank, Solid Rock Youth Ministries, and Joyfully Made Fellowship. Neidig said that Joyfully Made, which is overseen by Tami Shaub, is a ministry to students with special needs and disabilities. At one time, the funds raised by the food sales were donated to an organization in Haiti. "We used to go to Haiti to make the donation," said Neidig, who added that the unrest in the Caribbean nation has made the visits unsafe.

According to Neidig, working the kitchen at the craft fair is a labor of love for the dedicated volunteers who staff it each year. "It's a well-run machine," she stated. "Everyone has their own part. It's been a joy to be able to do this."

Readers who would like more information about the church may visit www.wesleyqville.org. Individuals who have questions may call 717-786-8322.