Deposits for Food makes latest donation to local pantries

Seven years ago, Deposits for Food began collecting returnable containers and scrap metal, giving all its proceeds to three Niagara County food pantries and shelters. Since that time, the total amount donated has grown to over $82,000.

Recently, Deposits for Food presented checks totaling $2,000 to two of the pantries: Heart, Love & Soul and Community Missions. D4F founder and administrator Angelo Sarkees of Lewiston would like to thank everyone who has supported his efforts over the years.

Sarkees recently secured additional donation revenues from two local restaurant projects. Eric Matthews and Ken Bryan of the Brickyard/BBC donated many hundreds of pounds of scrap from the rehabilitation of the Brickyard after a fire at the adjoining BBC, including a large amount of plumbing and HVAC-related scrap. Ken Scibetta and Ed Webster, owners of the Griffon Pubs, also donated hundreds of pounds of metal, including refrigeration-related metals, from their efforts of converting the IGA/Melloni's site into a restaurant in Youngstown. From these two projects, D4F was able to donate close to an extra $1,000 more than was anticipated.

Sarkees would also like to thank Rob and John from Collision Enterprises, along with everyone in their shop, for all the scrap donated from their auto repair business. Other contributors included Carmelo Raimondi and the staff of Carmelo's Coat of Arms in Lewiston, Michael Hibbard of Gallo/Gather restaurants in Lewiston, and all the individuals who have donated bottles, cans and scrap over the years.

Finally, Sarkees extends a special thank you to Doug Adamson and his staff at Porter Empty Return Center in Ransomville, where the returns are processed.

Sarkees would like to encourage everyone to support the local pantries and shelters, especially during these times and during the upcoming holiday season. He would also like to thank all the staff at the pantries for their dedication and efforts year-round.