GHTFundraiser - The Messiah at Notre Dame

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ― Margaret Mead  

It was for this purpose, the Good Tidings Benefit choir was formed 26 years ago. The caring and talented people of this community could see the need of the Hunger Task Force and found a creative way to help. This volunteer group performs this challenging music to raise monies for the area’s people in need. The talented Choir has raised the spirits of so many over the past 26 years either through song or through financial support. You only need a willing spirit to join. Choir members should be High school age and above. HS students receive community service hours for their work. You may bring your own copy of the Messiah or copies will be available at the practices for approx. $8 to purchase. Practices will be at Notre Dame Chapel at 13000 Auburn Center Road in Munson, Ohio on Sundays from 2 – 4 pm starting on October 18th and continue until the performance on December 5th and 6th. Soloists are chosen from the choir members. 

This benefit mimics Handel’s efforts to feed the poor, house the homeless and heal the sick of his time. The monies from the performances of his oratorio, Messiah freed people from debtor’s prisons, built orphanages and hospitals. We don’t have debtor’s prisons today but the grip of poverty is agonizing and we work as a community to free people from their shackles. The gift of food becomes more than a meal. What you do today, will make a difference now and in the future.  
 

The Hunger Task force recognizes the increasing need in this community. Five years ago there were 6400 visits to the food banks. In 2013, there were 10,000. In 2015 are up 20% from 2014 with over 480 families visiting the seven foodbanks each month. Those coming for help are the working poor, young families and senior citizens. Seniors have showed the largest increases in need. It is a fact that people cannot heal, rest, learn, or work when they are poorly nourished. The Task Force works on faith, that a community aware will be able to help their neighbors. “To ease another’s heartache is to forget one’s own.” ― Abraham Lincoln  
 

The Geauga Hunger Task Force was established in 1977 to serve the emergency food needs of Geauga County. This organization is a coalition of churches and social service agencies and area businesses. It costs the Task Force $3.50 to feed one person per day. Because of the local economy, the Hunger Task Force has lengthened their assistance from 10 days to 14. The need will not decrease during the holidays and January has been the busiest month for the food cupboards. With the redistribution of the Cleveland Food Banks funding, these benefits are even more critical to the needs of this community.