Pocono News Section

Free Community Meal in Snyder County

Free Community Meal in Snyder County - Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 5:30PM EST

Selinsgrove, Snyder County-
A Snyder County restaurant is going the extra mile to give back during these tough economic times.

We stopped by to get the dish on a community meal that’s making a difference.

Emma’s Food for Life on Market Street in Selinsgrove is the place to be- especially on the fourth Tuesday of each month.

That’s the night they’re offering a free meal to anyone, and everyone, in the community.

Co-owner Emma Renninger said, “People are having a hard time putting food on the table, so I just feel like this is a very important community service right now.”

The meals are initially being made possible through a grant from Susquehanna University.

And the menu, which changes each month, is sure to make your mouth water.

Renninger noted, “Tonight we’re doing ham and dandelion with hot bacon dressing, boiled potatoes, and butternut squash ravioli.”

The dinners start at six, and there’ll be an hour of entertainment afterward, which will also change each time.

Volunteer Mike Fleming explained, “Not only do they have a delicious meal, there’ll be a sort of family fellowship get-together, for an hour or so after the meal.”

In addition to offering the free meal, Emma’s will be promoting the Buy Fresh, Buy Local program, which supports farmers here in our area.

Renninger noted, “Basically you vote with your dollars. So the idea is to support your neighbors and support what they’re doing.”

Studies show some foods can travel as many as 2500 miles before they ever reach your plate. So to Emma, and many others, buying local only makes sense.

She added, “Well it’s definitely fresher. It’s full of way more nutrients. It’s just all the way around better for the economy, better for your health, and it tastes delicious.”

Again, the community meals are offered at Emma’s Food for Life on the fourth Tuesday of each month.

They are provided free of charge, but donations will be accepted to help cover costs.