HART fundraiser recognizes those contributing to organization's success

by Allison Deutschman

HART Interfaith, a nonprofit organization in Lewiston, is holding its 31st annual celebratory dinner at the Niagara Falls Country Club, Wednesday, June 4. Raffle baskets will be previewed at 5:30 p.m. and the dinner will begin at 6 p.m.

HART, a service organization assisting homebound elderly and the disabled, is responsible for matching its volunteer caregivers with qualified recipients in the community, free of charge.

"I've always had a heart to try to help people," says Pam Kilmer, describing her involvement with HART. "I believe in what they do. I believe they have a purpose."

Kilmer serves as secretary and treasurer of the board of directors of HART. She has been on the board for three years, serving completely voluntary.

Residents of Lewiston, Youngstown and Niagara Falls, in particular, benefit from HART's generosity and compassion.

Events like the June 4 dinner will benefit HART financially, giving them the ability to grow and serve additional communities such as Grand Island and North Tonawanda.

There will be three honorees recognized at the dinner. The Town of Lewiston, Dr. Robert Bull Jr. and Joanne Stanton have provided outstanding support for HART.

Town Supervisor Dennis Brochey will be accepting the award on behalf of Lewiston.

Kilmer said the town's financial contribution of more than $50,000 since 1991 has made an incredible difference in the organization's success.

Bull has supported HART by recommending their services to his patients. Bull prioritizes the comfort of his patients and with the assistance of HART many of them can stay in their homes with the proper service provided by a caregiver.

And Stanton has been a board member alongside Kilmer for many years. Stanton was in charge of various fundraising opportunities, including organizing for the dinner for eight at The Van Horn Mansion that will be raffled off at the 31st annual celebration.

Lori Caso of the LCTV show "Lori and Friends" will be emcee for the event. Tickets are available for $40 by contacting HART at 716-754-8313 by Tuesday, June 3.