CANTON – This year is the 50th birthday of the Church & Community Program (CCP), begun in 1974 and based in Canton and surrounding towns and villages. 

To kick things off, clergy, board members, program director, and volunteers from the food pantry, Second Chance Thrift Shop, Back to School Program, and Giving Tree gathered to sing “Happy Birthday” and share birthday cake in late February.

All through this year, festive events are happening, including a Canton Rotary sponsored dinner at the 1844 House benefiting the CCP as part of Winterfest 2024, a Bowling Tournament at the Ogdensburg Bowl in April, and many more.  

Since September is Hunger Action Month, the largest celebration will take place then, bringing together the Church & Community Program clergy, leaders and volunteers with local businesses and community supporters for the official celebration.

This month, the program’s Spring fund drive will launch. The Church & Community Program is supported by local businesses, churches, and many, many individuals.  With the exception of the CCP Program Director, all the work is done by volunteers  and the Program receives no direct assistance from the government.

“Spring is a time of renewal and new life, and in 2024 we increasingly need help from everyone in our community to keep our programs going,” says Fran Bailey, Chair of the Board.  “Poverty is rising fast in our county and so are food costs, and we count on everyone here to help us keep to our fifty-year-old purpose: ‘Neighbors helping neighbors since 1974’.”