The food shelf community remembers John Lavigne

As we head into this season of Thanksgiving, we are grateful to and mourn the passing of our dear friend and longtime volunteer, John Lavigne.

John had a warm heart; he was a friendly face, welcoming families for over 15 years.

When we think of John, the words kind, caring, generous, reliable and friend come to mind, as do memories of his eagerness and devotion to do good for others. The families and volunteers within our food shelf community loved John: his calm, smiling presence; his endless enthusiasm for perfect execution of multiple tasks; and his unique ability to bring calm and hope to difficult situations.

John had an amazing work ethic and was our “go-to guy” for many jobs, including countless hours spent at food distribution, defrosting our massive freezer, unloading large food bank orders, managing monthly produce pickup, recycling hundreds of boxes, distributing holiday baskets and serving on the assistance committee.

We remember how he organized volunteers to stack wood for a senior in our community.

As a bird lover, we remember how John would call other like-minded friends to tell them of a bird seed sale.

As the emergency contact person for those suddenly out of food, we remember how John would happily drop whatever he was doing when called and unlock the doors to help a family obtain critically needed food.

He had a wonderful gift of gab and an impish sense of humor. Even during the pandemic when we all wore masks, we could still sense John’s smile. We miss him and know that John’s memory and loving spirit lives on in the food shelf that he helped sustain.

Announcements
Thanksgiving basket pick up for registered families is Saturday, Nov. 18, 10 a.m.-noon.
The Charlotte Food Shelf remains committed to helping those in need, as well as dignified access to healthy food. If you or someone you know in Charlotte or North Ferrisburgh is facing utility shut-off or an unexpected hardship, help is available.

All requests and grants are kept private and are available by simply calling 802-425-3252 or by filling out a request form. Request forms are available during food shelf open hours or on the website.

The food shelf is open for food distribution from 4-6 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 403 Church Hill Road behind the Charlotte Congregational Church.

For emergency food, please call 802-425-3252. If you cannot come to the food shelf due to COVID symptoms or want more information, call 802-425-3252.

Monetary donations are appreciated, tax deductible and can be addressed to: Charlotte Food Shelf, Inc., P.O. Box 83, Charlotte VT 05445, or submitted electronically using the new Paypal link on our website.

(The tribute to John Lavigne included memories from other food shelf volunteers.)