Community Outreach in Youngstown

St. John’s, Youngstown hosted almost 500 people from near and far at their annual Strawberry Fest, held Saturday June 28. The event began as a “strawberry social” for soldiers stationed at Fort Niagara during WW II. Today, the church still provides a luscious treat to our guests, which is now strawberry shortcake made with local berries, real whipped cream and homemade biscuits. Rounding out the afternoon, the Nickel City Blues Band provided the music and Donuts D. Clown was on hand for face painting and balloon animals. The Youngstown Lions provided hamburgers and hotdogs.

The Strawberry Fest is not a fundraiser for the church. Parishioners give generously to pay for the supplies needed for the shortcake and entertainment. The strawberry shortcake is a gift to attendees – given away in gratitude for all God’s many blessings to the community and parish, both established in the 1800’s. Many of our guests insist upon making a free will offering, and all net proceeds are donated to non-profit organizations and ministries. This year, St. John’s will be able to make a generous donation to the Buffalo-Niagara Honor Flight, which will cover the entire cost of a local veteran’s visit Washington DC.