T-L Photo/GAGE VOTA Daily Bread Center’s annual Salad Luncheon line up to receive their lunch at St. Mary School gym.

MARTINS FERRY — Several people flocked to the St. Mary School gym for the Daily Bread Center’s annual Salad Luncheon on Thursday.

A variety of salads, chicken salad sandwiches, desserts and beverages were provided to attendees who offered “love offerings,” which are donations of any monetary value.

Daily Bread Center Advisory Board President Pat Hartenstein said this year’s event may have been the largest since the COVID-19 pandemic halted the annual tradition.

“Initially we really had big crowds way back, but then COVID-19 hit, and then the first couple years that we brought it back it was a little more lean, but this is a nice turnout,” Hartenstein said. “We still have a lot of things in the refrigerator, so we can keep replenishing.”

She added that a silent auction was held where tickets were available for $1 each or six for $5.

Hartenstein said that like every year, the silent auction was a huge success.

“The silent auctions draw a lot of people, especially the ones that have gift cards or actual cash in them and lottery tickets. That’s always a big draw.”

She added that there were roughly 20 baskets up for grabs, donated by the churches involved.

“Our churches are asked to prepare a dish, dessert or salad, and they donate, and they don’t expect any reimbursement for it, they’re just helping a good cause,” Hartenstein said. “We appreciate everybody that’s donated or came out to take part in the salad luncheon, because without the people it’s not a luncheon.”

The Daily Bread Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides fresh, frozen and packaged food items and serves more than 15,000 meals a year, reaching approximately 2,250 households, including seniors and children. To do this, the center depends on the generosity and support of businesses and leaders in the community. It provides food to families within the Martins Ferry City School District attendance area in conjunction with the Mid-Ohio Food Bank.

Hartenstein said the center provides food assistance to individuals and families living within the Martins Ferry area. Services are offered on a walk-in basis during regular distribution hours, and no appointment is required. Guests are encouraged to bring a photo ID and proof of local residency to help verify eligibility and ensure services reach those in the community. Individuals are also asked to bring their own bags or containers when possible.

She added that recently Unified Bank stepped up to help meet community needs by donating commercial-grade freezers and refrigerators, allowing the center to safely store large quantities of meat and frozen items.

“Unified also provides ongoing operational support, contributing more than $14,000 annually to help cover essential expenses and ensure uninterrupted service,” according to a press release from Unified Bank.

It added that Unified Bank’s support has played a critical role in the center’s ability to grow and respond to changing community needs. As economic pressures, closures and program disruptions have increased demand, Unified has consistently remained a reliable partner.

Hartenstein said she is incredibly grateful for the volunteers, community partners and supporters who make the center’s mission possible.

The Daily Bread Center is located at 100 N. Zane Highway and is open from 10 a.m. to noon every Wednesday and the last three Saturdays of each month.