Beech Tree News Network

The Annual Radiothon for the Morgantown Mission began with the goal of collecting enough pledges to fill 600-holiday food baskets for needy local families. It ended four hours later with 664 baskets pledged and $20,000 raised.

Several people, businesses, groups, churches, farmers, county officials, and organizations came to show their support for the Mission.

In 2011 Garry McKinney, Mission Director, approached Diane Dyer of WLBQ Radio, wanting to go on air to get donations to fill food baskets. The goal for the first year was 75 baskets, which was reached. However, the need continues to climb, thus the goal of 600 baskets for 2023.

The Radiothon got an early start this year, with baskets pledged before Friday and during WLBQ's Out On A Limb program.

Donations rolled in steadily throughout the morning, and the goal was reached and surpassed in the closing minutes. With people still coming after 1:00 pm, the total continues to grow.

The Mission will distribute baskets to families in need in the community during the holiday season. Each basket will contain a turkey or ham, stuffing, potatoes, vegetables, bread, and dessert. Although the Radiothon is over, the need remains. Anyone wanting to make a late donation can do so at the Mission.

Plans are already underway for the 2024 Radiothon.

"We want to thank everyone who made the radiothon a success; we are blessed and humbled to be able to help," added Diane Dyer, WLBQ/Beech Tree News.