For an afternoon of fun, fellowship and fundraising, make plans to attend the inaugural Saint Paul Episcopal Church Spring Fling Bingo. The event will be held on Saturday, May 17, at the Millersville VFW, 219 Walnut Hill Road, Millersville. Doors will open at noon, and regular bingo will begin at 1:30 p.m. An early bird blackout bingo game with a cash prize will be held at 1:15 p.m. for an additional cost.

"We have great prizes - Michael Kors purses, a fire pit, a raised-bed garden, a fishing rod, binoculars, a Blackstone grill and cash - to name a few," said Kim Morrow, who is organizing the event with Christine Weinberg.

People who attend the bingo will also have the opportunity to win prize baskets of baby items, beauty supplies, baking tools, Nissley Vineyards products and more.

The event will feature 20 games of regular bingo, with four special-prize games for an additional cost. A 50/50 giveaway will also be held. Food, including baked goods, and beverages will be available for purchase.

"We are collecting nonperishable items for the food bank that is housed in our church," Morrow said, referencing the Columbia Food Bank. "For every nonperishable item brought, you get a free (giveaway) ticket."

This is the first time the church members are hosting a community bingo, and organizers are hopeful that the event will raise much-needed funds for church projects and initiatives.

"Previous fundraisers have restored the nave, fixed the audio system and fixed the church roof," Morrow shared. "The proceeds from this event will go toward new lighting in the sanctuary, upgrading the heating and cooling system in the Mary Elizabeth Bair Parish Hall and supporting our property budget."

She noted that the church building, located at 340 Locust St. in Columbia, is truly a community space.

"Our church is not only used by our congregation, but by local Girl Scout troops, the Theodore Burr Covered Bridge Society of PA, as well as the Columbia Food Bank," she explained, noting that the site also hosts other charitable events to benefit the greater community.

She encourages anyone who is interested to purchase a ticket for the bingo. Tickets will be available for a discount if purchased in advance. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

"It will be a fun-filled afternoon that benefits our church and community," Morrow said.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call Barb at 717-940-4841.