Poverello Center Food Bank founder to party like it’s 1960

The founder of The Poverello Center Food Bank, Father William Collins, OFM will celebrate 50 years of service to the community with a Golden Jubilee to be held on Saturday, June 26.

The evening will be spotlighted with several proclamations to honor the Centers Founder and will also feature a sit down dinner with open bar and live entertainment.

The Poverello Center Food Bank provides food for men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS in Broward County. Since founding the Center in 1987 the need has seen a steady rise and the sad truth is that as of 2010 the Center has served over 12,000 clients and now provides food that creates 1,000,000 meals annually.

While serving as Chaplain at Imperial Point Medical Center, Father Collins came to know and minister to the growing number of patients with a little known disease was ever increasing and “Father Bill” as he is lovingly called by the community, came to realize the hardships that these people were forced to endure. Father soon realized that two of the most basic needs of these humans were food and shelter. He began with what little money he had in his pocket to those in need. He soon ran through all of his retirement money and realized that something had to be done. Father began begging to Churches, Synagogue’s, grocery stores and anyone that would listen. Soon Father Bill and a small group of volunteers formed a not for profit corporation and opened The Poverello Thrift Store. During this time Father Bill taught at a local college and all of his salary went to purchase more food to feed those in need.

To celebrate this remarkable man the community will come together on June 26 at the Fort Lauderdale-Broward County Convention Center for a Golden Jubilee. A cocktail hour followed by sit down dinner, open bar and dancing throughout the evening with the sounds of the Jerry Wayne Dance Band. Several municipalities have declared the weekend as “Father Bill” Weekend. Local news anchor, Dave Aizer of WSFL-TV ‘s Morning Show will serve as emcee for the event.

Tickets are $135 and are available for the Jubilee for purchase on line at poverello.org or by calling the Poverello Center office at 954-561-3663. —FA