Heart, Love and Soul annual recognition dinner

Celebrating its 30th anniversary year, Heart, Love and Soul Food Pantry and Dining Room announces its annual recognition dinner will take place on Thursday, April 26. The event begins at 5:30 p.m., at Heart, Love & Soul, 939 Ontario Ave., Niagara Falls.

Honorees include James and Mary Glynn, Maid of the Mist; M&T Bank; 107th Medical Group, Niagara Falls Air Base; Gary Smith, Modern Disposal; Mary Lou Curry; Carol Pettway; and Gail Laster.

Dinner tickets are $50 per person. Call 716-282-5687 for reservations.

Thirty years ago, Heart, Love & Soul was initiated by a prayer group from Sacred Heart Parish led by Frances Ficorilli. Today, the food pantry and dining room remains a beacon of hope for the residents of Niagara Falls.  The mission is "to feed the hungry and to provide them with opportunities to improve their quality of life." To fulfill its mission, Heart & Soul serves an average of 40 breakfasts and 150 lunches daily. In addition, the pantry provides food to 650 persons each month.

Barbara Malinowski, parish nurse at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital, works with Heart & Soul guests to secure needed medical care as well as monitor chronic conditions. Janet Smith, social worker, is available to assist guests with social services resources.

Heart and Soul must raise $200,000 per year in the private sector to secure funding needed to continue its mission. This annual dinner is the largest fundraiser to support its mission.