Marion’s Berries Aid Food Shelf
by Gail Callahan

With the rising cost of food and fuel, an increasing number of people are expected to turn to local food shelves in the coming months for assistance in paying utility bills and feeding their families. Marion Roberts, 82, a native Charlotte resident, is aware of this disturbing trend and is determined to alleviate some of the suffering.
Marion, who lives on Greenbush Road, has a large section of blackberry bushes in her side yard. For decades the patch provided fresh fruit for visitors and family, but recently, as the economy took a downward turn, Mrs. Roberts decided to share the small berries with passersby, turning over the proceeds to the Charlotte Food Shelf.
The setup of this creative fundraiser was simple: A stand holding the quarts of berries was placed in front of Marion’s home. A container for money was also on the table, according to Beth Sytsma, Marion’s daughter-in-law, who has lived in town for eight years. Would-be customers were on the “honor system” to pay for the fruit, said Beth. “This year, she wanted to use the money as a donation for the Food Shelf. It was absolutely wonderful.”
“I’ve always had a garden. My son, daughters and neighbors picked the berries (now),” said Marion, who grew up in the Greenbush Road house. “I thought it would be a good idea to give the Food Shelf the money. People are going to have a hard time this winter paying for fuel and food.”
When Marion’s seven children were growing up, the brood would pick the berries, selling them for a few cents. To them the financial gain was enormous, she said. “People knew the berries were there,” said Marion. “I thought it was a great idea if it could help someone.” Since the project started earlier this summer, Marion’s efforts have raised $650.
According to Karen Doris, director of the Charlotte Food Shelf, this type of donation provides the shot in the arm needed by the organization. “I think it’s really great when a family in town gives like this. That money means we can buy 3,000 pounds of food.” A representative from the Charlotte Food Shelf is slated to pick up the money from Marion this week.