A new year is here and there is so much to be thankful for at the Honer Community Food Pantry.

Many thanks to the Homer Foundation for the $250 People’s Choice Award given to support our mission to feed those in need. It went toward our Christmas special purchase of turkeys. We continue to be blessed by the Homer Foundation and are most grateful for their support.

The Lighthouse Grill, owned by Jane and Ralph Stover, provided 150 holiday lunches: cheeseburger, fries and a soft drink to clients from the food pantry. What an especially kind and thoughtful gift and treat. It was a first for our community at a time most difficult for small businesses. Our heartfelt thanks go out to the Stovers who have blessed so many in our community. What a great idea.

Essential 1, owned by the Lindseys gave us a huge financial donation from their campaign of 5 cents for every gallon of gas from Nov. 15 to Dec. 15. This generous gift will enable us to purchase needed food for four months. They have blessed us by giving from this special event for the past three years. We appreciate their continued support and caring.

As in the past, so many in our community showed up with financial donations, turkeys, canned food and vegetables to share. In all my 16-plus years at the pantry, it never ceases to amaze me as I witness the kindness and the generosity of those of you who reach out to others in our heartfelt, caring and compassionate community.

Thanks, Homer!

Diana Jeska and the board of the Homer Community Food Pantry