Easter baskets, eggs added to drive-through

Easter baskets that were donated by Century 21 Asa Cox homes and Easter eggs filled with candy were added to the picture at a monthly free grab and go lunch event for children and their families.

“It gives kids hope. As being a part of the spiritual community, we try to give them a sense of something better in the future, a sense of belonging, a sense of somebody cares, especially during the season of Easter,” said Myrtis RanderWalker, the pastor of the Connection Meal Church, who was one of the many volunteers at the drivethrough lunch that took place at 32901 Vine St. in Willowick.

Between 300 and 400 people were expected to be in attendance, which is usually the norm, said Mike Zuren, City of Eastlake. In addition to the hot dogs, cookies and drinks, as well as the Easter eggs and baskets, dry dog and cat food was also provided for those in need.

“We give away lunches to children who may be facing hardships in the community and we usually have 300 or more kids,” Zuren said. “We have about 3,000 plastic eggs with candy that we’re giving bags of them to families so they can have an Easter egg hunt at home, which is a safer environment than doing a large one outdoors. There are a lot of people hurting. Just a little bit of help goes a long way.”

Among the volunteers at the grab and go lunch were members of the Eastlake Women’s Club, church members and North High School students who are looking for volunteer hours.

“I think it’s great for the community and the community likes it too. People are so appreciative,” said Sherry Landry, Eastlake

Women’s Club member. “Kids need something special. We used to have Easter

egg hunts when we were kids and they don’t do anything now.”

PHOTOS BY MARAH MORRISON — THE NEWS-HERALD Easter baskets that were donated by Century 21Asa Cox homes and Easter eggs filled with candy were added to the picture at a monthly free grab and go lunch event for children and their families.