Beech Tree News Network

The Annual Radiothon for the Morgantown Mission began with the goal of collecting enough pledges to fill 350-holiday food baskets for needy local families. It ended four hours later with 375 baskets pledged, and over $11,000 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, "This community so blesses us, 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.

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 100-basket head start. Brent Clark, Josh Hampton, Steve McKinney, and Diane Dyer worked the live remote with help from Garry McKinney and several individuals from the community.

Donations rolled in steadily throughout the morning, in the closing minutes of the broadcast, the goal was reached and surpassed. With people still calling and texting, 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 2020 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/ Beech Tree News.