The fundraiser continues through Friday, April 5. Anyone interested in supporting the meals program can stop by the following locations to pick up an Easter egg filled with a surprise, for a minimum donation of $5. Participating locations include the Alpena Senior Citizens Center, HPC Credit Union, Wolverine State Credit Union, and Alpena Community Credit Union.

Individuals and organizations have stepped up to support the program, which serves many homebound seniors in Alpena County.

“The cribbage league raised $75 toward the Meals on Wheels fundraiser,” said Matt Haske, a member of the league and one of the fundraising organizers. “I’m hoping that other organizations and businesses will hop on board to help out Meals on Wheels.”

As of Friday morning, nearly $700 was raised through donations coming into both branches of HPC Credit Union.

Courtesy Photo A young boy holds up an Easter egg from the basket at Alpena Community Credit Union, while the Easter Bunny sits next to him.

“Many people have come in just for the sake of donating and not doing any transactions with us, which was amazing to see,” said Ellie Kindt, HPC marketing coordinator and event planner. “We’ve had people donate without taking an egg, as well. It just shows how generous our community is!”

At Wolverine State Credit Union, many people have donated, as well.

“We have a member who participated in the Meals on Wheels program and received meals herself, and was happy to buy an egg and donate to the fundraiser,” said Loren Jackson, Wolverine State Credit Union marketing director. “We also had a member buy 10 eggs and donated $50, with one egg being a $25 winner, which she wanted to donate back to the senior center fundraiser.”

Alpena Senior Citizens Center Director Annie Hepburn is grateful for all the support the community has shown during this fundraiser.

“It’s been great with all the support from the credit unions, Easter Bunny, the senior center, and community,” Hepburn said. “Meals on Wheels is our largest program.”

Courtesy Photo Two happy boys visit with the Easter Bunny at Wolverine State Credit Union.

Haske encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations to keep the giving going to meet or exceed the $4,000 goal by Friday, April 5.

“Make Alpena strong,” Haske added. “Be kind. Let’s all try to be helpful and smile — that is all some people get in a day when Meals on Wheels is delivered. People matter.”

If you have any questions about the fundraiser or Meals on Wheels, call the senior center at 989-356-3585. The center is located at 501 River St., Alpena.

Courtesy Photo A mother and daughter smile for a photo with the Easter Bunny at HPC Credit Union.

Courtesy Photo The Easter Bunny gives “bunny ears” to smiling staff members at Wolverine State Credit Union.

Courtesy Photo The Easter Bunny visits with two women working on puzzles at the Alpena Senior Citizens Center.