‘Big Give’ lives up to its name

By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

The first ever “Big Give” auction Saturday at Aulne United Methodist Church exceeded all expectations, according to treasurer Kevin Fruechting.

At least $10,218 was raised on items donated for sale by church and community members. Roger Hiebert was auctioneer.

After expenses connected with a pulled-pork meal are deducted, net proceeds will be divided between three charities: The Hub, Peabody; New Hope Shelter, Newton; and Operation Christmas Child.

The church will use the Operation Christmas Child money to pay for shipping expenses for shoeboxes that are sent to needy children all over the world. Fruechting said the shipping cost on more than 400 shoeboxes collected last year was $9 per box.

Operation Christmas Child operates under the auspices of Samaritan’s Purse, which distributes the boxes.