Onalaska Hilltopper Rotary donates $7,367 to help feed those in need

A heart-warming gift will help cool food for families in need.

The Onalaska Hilltopper Rotary club (OHRC) gave the Food Basket in Onalaska $7,367 to help the pantry buy a large, commercial-grade freezer.

Benedict Sales and Service installed the freezer Thursday morning and donated the cost of delivery and installation.

“We’re very happy to be part of a great community project,” Luke Benedict of Benedict Sales and Service said.

Festival Foods also covered the cost of the freezer with a grant.

“One of the best things about Onalaska is the generous spirit of people living here,” Hilltopper Rotary Spokesman Dan Stevens said. “It’s common to see people, businesses and organizations come together to make this a great place to call home.”

Food Basket Executive Director Ruth Krett said the new freezer will help the pantry in its mission to serve the area.

“If you know someone in need from Onalaska, Holmen, West Salem, Galesville, or Trempealeau, let them know we have food resources to help them and their family,” Krett said.

The Food Basket is located at 735 Sand Lake Rd in back of the Onalaska American Legion.