County Connections: Lancaster-Fairfield Charity Newsies have long history of supporting children

Unless generosity of spirit prevails among men, there can never be upon earth an ideal life. - Orison Swett Marden

Founded in 1936, The Lancaster-Fairfield Charity Newsies was born of a desire to support local children amid the scarcity of the Great Depression. And, while much has changed in our community over those 86 years, the needs of local families, and the passion of the Newsies, have remained.

Famous for their red coveralls and newspaper drive – from which their name is derived – the Newsies respond with support at the scene of local fires, distribute toys and school supplies throughout the year, and are found almost anywhere that there is child in need.

Among their most far-reaching service initiatives is their holiday food box distribution, serving over 500 families in Fairfield County last year.

Offering groceries and household staples for a family of four, each box weighs over 50 pounds. Containing eggs, bread, milk, meat, canned goods, paper products, and other basic supplies, these boxes are delivered in person to the homes of vulnerable residents. After transporting the boxes in their own vehicles, food items are carried inside, and sometimes unpacked, by Newsies members.

Locally supported on every level, many products within the food boxes are donated by Fairfield County businesses, such as Bays Food Market. However, as need has grown, the cost of the initiative has increased, as well - necessitating continual fundraising to ensure everyone in need is served.

“As much as we can help families stay on their feet, that is our goal,” explained Newsies member Jay Nauman.

And while many civic groups are characterized by rotating membership, the Newsies are known for their loyal, often life-long, members. Nauman himself is a perfect example.

Beginning his involvement by packing food boxes as an eight year-old boy, Nauman joined the club officially in 1995.

This year, Nauman is Co-Chairing the Ladies Golf Outing – one of the few local outings especially for women - alongside fellow member Paul Reef. And while it may seem early to consider holiday food boxes and back-to-school support, fundraising is well-underway to meet rising local need.

Taking place on Sunday, June 26 at 9:00am, at Valley View Golf Club, Nauman notes that the event still has team slots available, as well as opportunities for sponsorship.

“We are very appreciative of the sponsors we have. We have sponsors who have supported us year after year, but we are always looking for more support,” he explained.

Entry fee for a team is $195 and includes three golfers, as well as door prizes, tee gifts, food, beverages, and access to games and activities at the course.

Since the Newsies work is 100% charity – meaning that all proceeds go directly to serve those in need – funds raised from the Ladies Golf Outing will used entirely to improve local lives.

But the Ladies’ Outing is just the start of the Newsies fundraising season.

Golfers seeking to participate in the Newsies’ Men’s Golf Outing can mark their calendars for Sunday, September 4 at 9 a.m. at Valley View. Registration fees and sponsorships for this event offer yet another opportunity for community compassion, all while enjoying a local golf tradition.

Those seeking more information on Newsies events, sponsorship opportunities and outreach are welcome to visit their website at https://www.charitynewsies1936.com/.

Information about Newsies membership is also available on the website. As an active social and civic club, Newsies members of all backgrounds are continually sought. Together, these members provide the volunteerism, creativity, and connection upon which the Newsies legacy is built.

“The fact that we are 100% charity really matters. It simply comes down to helping other people,” concluded Nauman.

Saturday, June 25, The Lancaster Farmers Market will offer fresh produce and other treats between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the parking lot at West Chestnut Street, between Broad and Columbus streets. Well-behaved dogs are welcome and food vendors accept SNAP EBT. Visit www.lancasterohfarmersmarket.org for information.

Thank you for your emails and ideas! Please continue to contact me at tkellyfairfieldcounty@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: Lancaster-Fairfield Charity Newsies have long history of supporting children