Mike Devich

Managing editor

God's Storehouse in Weldon has new freezers for its food distribution program to the needy, thanks to a philanthropic group and a local business.

Bob Barnes, right, of the Community Foundation Serving Kern County, presents $1,000 donation to representatives of God's Storehouse: from left, Earl Cole, Carol Benoun, Ron Ganczak, Dorothy Ashley, and the program's coordinator, Jackie Cole.

Bob Barnes of Weldon, a member of the board of directors of the Community Foundation Serving Kern County, was present at the council meeting of the Weldon United Methodist Church (where God's Storehouse is located) on Sunday to explain a little about the Foundation and to present a check in a ceremony. Barnes is the only Kern Valley member of the group, the Kern County arm of a nationwide philanthropic group which distributes donated funds back to the community.

The Community Foundation is a national organization that traces its roots back to 1900. The first affiliated organization in California was established in 1915.

Barnes was recommended for the honor of joining the Community Foundation serving Kern County last year. He is the only member outside the Bakersfield area. Barnes said, "I asked who recommended me, and they said I was nominated anonymously."

Jackie Cole, coordinator for God's Storehouse, said, "We had several old freezers that had been donated to us many years ago. We recently lost one old freezer and all the food that was stored in it so we knew it was only a matter of time before the other freezers would meet the same fate."

Cole said the two new freezers were provided at cost by Barnes Bargains of Lake Isabella" (no relation to Bob Barnes, Barnes Bargains is owned by Brian and Nettie Barnes). Cole said the freezers were even delivered free by the store.

Cole explained the need for donations to keep God's Storehouse able to provide for the needs of disadvantaged Valley residents, who must register for the program. God's Storehouse has many regulars they provide food to, including 25 shut-in seniors.

To donate to God's Storehouse, you may call Weldon Methodist Church at 378-3321. To find out more about the Community Foundation Serving Kern County, call (661) 325-5346 or go to their web site at www.kernfoundation.org