Food Drive Deemed a Success
Florence residents stepped up in a big way during the annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive last Saturday, May 10th. Local letter carriers collected 9,415 pounds of non-perishable food left by mailboxes and delivered it to Florence Food Share at the post office. The donation helps feed more than 4,000 people across Western Lane County who rely on Florence Food Share for support. Executive Director Colin Morgan said the response was overwhelming and praised both residents and postal workers for their efforts. Stamp Out Hunger is the largest single-day food collection in the country and plays a critical role in keeping shelves stocked for families, seniors, and individuals facing food insecurity.
Chamber Shows Support For Boys and Girls Club
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce has voiced strong support for the Boys and Girls Club of Western Lane County as part of ongoing efforts to address the region’s critical childcare shortage. In a recent letter to Mayor Rob Ward and the City Council, the Chamber emphasized the Club’s key role in providing early childhood development and after-school programs—services that directly impact working families and the local economy. Discussions about potential city involvement have reportedly taken place, as community leaders explore ways to strengthen support for local providers.
Rhododendron Festival
The 118th annual Rhododendron Festival is underway in Florence with this year’s theme, Rhodies on the River. Friday’s events include the Old Town Vendor Fair on Maple Street, the Rhododendron Quilt Guild’s show, and the Davis Shows Carnival at the Port of Siuslaw. Saturday brings the Rhody Run, a classic car show, the arts festival, a quilt and rhododendron show, and the Coast Radio Car Cruise at 5:30 p.m. Sunday wraps up the weekend with a public breakfast, chicken BBQ, and the Grand Parade. A full schedule is available at rhodydays.net.
