CRANBURY — One of Cranbury’s great traditions will continue next week.
On June 14 from 4 to 8 p.m., the First Presbyterian Church of Cranbury will holds its annual Strawberry Festival to raise money for the church’s Deacons Benevolence Fund.
”The Strawberry Festival has been a tradition in Cranbury for over 50 years,” said festival co-chair Brenda Kirkenir, in a press release. “Many of our members remember the fun when they were children and now bring their own children and even grandchildren.”
The festival is the main fundraiser for the Benevolence Fund, which provides support for church members and residents of the greater Cranbury community who need help during a time of financial hardship.
”This event really helps people in the community and not just church members,” said Deanna Anderson, one of the festival’s organizers. “People who have specific needs come to the church when situations come up that they can’t handle or need help with. This year we’re going to be seeing increased needs with the state of the economy and that makes the fundraising of the festival more critical this year.”
The Benevolence Fund allows the church to help congregation and community members when they need assistance paying some bills.
”We identify those who need financial assistance with their rent or utility bills,” said program moderator Sonya Bianchi. “The funds are sent directly to the landlord or utility companies to help during a time of hardship.”
In addition to the altruistic nature of the festival, the event will feature fun for the entire family, according to Ms. Anderson.
”The Strawberry Festival is a great way to kick off the summer,” Ms. Anderson said. “It’s a great day to bring out the entire family and there will be tons of different games for kids to play.”
Admission to the festival is $7 for adults and children and $5 for senior citizens. Admission to the show entitles each person to strawberries, cake, ice cream, and unlimited games. Members of the police, fire department and first aid squad will give tours of their vehicles. There will also be face-painting, pony rides and a clown as well as live music and grilled food for sale.
”The Strawberry Festival is an event that’s been a Cranbury tradition for over 50 years,” Ms. Anderson said. “It’s great fun for a great cause.”
The First Presbyterian Church of Cranbury is located at 22 South Main St. For more information on the Strawberry Festival or the Benevolence Fund, call the church office at 609-395-0897.
