Beech Tree News Network

The Annual Radiothon for the Morgantown Mission began with the goal of collecting enough pledges to fill 300-holiday food baskets for needy local families. It ended four hours later with 343 baskets pledged, and over $10,000 raised.
"Thank you, God," was a phrase often heard on Friday as several people, businesses, groups, churches, farmers, county officials, and organizations came out to show their support for the Mission. 
 Mission Director Garry McKinney stated,"We are so blessed by this community, thank you for your generosity."
In 2011 McKinney 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. According to McKinney, the need continues to climb thus the goal of 300 baskets for 2017.
The Radiothon got an early start this year, with baskets pledged before Friday and during  WLBQ’s Out On A Limb program, giving the Mission a 36-basket head start. The athletic teams at both BCHS and BCMS pledged baskets early as well as North Butler Elementary and Butler County Middle School.
Donations rolled in steadily throughout the morning, and in the closing minutes of the broadcast, the goal was reached and surpassed. With people still coming thru the door after 1:00 pm the total continues to grow. 
The baskets will be distributed during the holiday season to families in need in the community. 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 2018 Radiothon.
"We want to say thank you to everyone that made the radiothon a success, we are blessed and humbled to be able to help," said Diane Dyer, of WLBQ.