Former Samaritan Center director has good memories

On Oct. 13 the Samaritan Center celebrated the 21st anniversary of its founding with an ecumenical service followed by a luncheon at the St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Manalapan. At that time, I was also the honored guest commemorating my retirement after 21 years of service to the needy of our community.

My many friends, clients, generous donors and faithful volunteers attended the ceremony and luncheon. For those who could not attend, I would like to extend my sincere thanks for their support and generosity over the years because without the help of all you wonderful people my job would have been impossible.

To my staff, Karen, Anne and Frank, I extend a special thank you for the years of loyal support and friendship that they extended to our clients and me.

The Samaritan Center has been a Godsend to those in need within our community. We have shared some very good times and, regrettably, all too often some hardships.

I am proud and honored to have served you and to have supported you with the weekly food parcels, holiday dinner baskets, Christmas and Hanukkah gifts, homelessness prevention and home heating and utility support over the years. Our charter from the beginning of the ministry has been to "alleviate the suffering of the poor" and we did our best to fulfill that mandate.

I will never forget any of you and I pray that all of your prayers will be answered and your burdens lightened.

Carol Puorro Brick Township