Athletic Director Tackles Poverty At Year’s Neediest Time

JAMESTOWN – Jamestown Community College Athletic Director Keith Martin is raising awareness for St. Susan Center  by standing outside of the Cycle Shop in Brooklyn Square for the next two days accepting food and cash donations. 

“Right now, they are on pace to serve over 123,000 meals this year,” said Martin. “What we’ve tried to do over the last several years is to raise awareness and raise funds for St. Susan.”

Martin kickstarted the initiative, dubbed Community Holiday Haul, about five years ago.

“The need is here, so what our job here is to raise awareness and help them out,” Martin said. “This community has given so much to me, and I just want to give it back.”

Joining Martin in the blowing and drifting snow on Thursday was Jeff Smith, St. Susan’s Executive Director.

“The fastest growing demographic we’re seeing right now is children,”said Smith. “No child should have to go hungry especially in a country as rich as ours.”

You can drop off donations at the Cycle Shop located at 10 Harrison St. on Friday from 6:00 am – 7:00 pm and Saturday from 7:00 am – 3:00 pm.