FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine — With the start of spring, the Fort Fairfield Rotary Club is gearing up for their annual Vidalia onion sale.
The fundraiser is key in providing two $1,000 scholarships to Fort Fairfield High School graduates every year.
“The sale is such a unique opportunity, ”Dianna Leighton, club secretary, said. “Folks get a chance to purchase these amazing onions at their seasonal peak, while benefiting a great program for local students. It’s such a win-win.”
Onions can be purchased for $25 for a 25 lb. bag, with orders delivered by Rotary members in mid-May. Those interested in placing an order can do so by contacting Leighton at (207) 370-1686 or dmbleighton@gmail.com
With the challenges of the pandemic, Fort Fairfield Rotary Club has continued to stay focused on its service mission. During the past year, club members have volunteered frequently with the Basket of Blessings Food Pantry, assisting with large food deliveries and providing financial support during the holidays.
The club also provided funding to Fort Fairfield Elementary School in December to ensure that all students have gloves and hats during the coldest months. This commitment to area youth has also continued to the Rotary Spirit Award program, which recognizes two Fort Fairfield High School students who excel at civic leadership within the community.
“It’s taken some creativity to find ways to serve the community while keeping our neighbors safe and healthy. That has meant temporary canceling some of our regular programs in the past year, but it has also provided opportunities to build new partnerships, or even extend existing partnerships in new ways,” Leighton said.
The annual Vidalia Onion Sale provides everyone across Aroostook County with the opportunity to contribute to the club’s work. Club members look forward to delivering orders each year, as it also serves as a chance to connect with local residents and businesses to discuss Rotary Club goals and ideas for the coming year.
As the pandemic eases, members look forward to more public programs and service projects out in the community.
To learn more about Fort Fairfield Rotary Club and Rotary International, visit https://www.fortfairfieldrotary.org/.
