When Justin Meidam passed away on Thursday, August 4 following a tragic accident, leaving behind his wife Carrie, daughter Emma and unborn son Justin Ray II, friends and family set out to help.
By Saturday, August 6, the first benefit had already been scheduled.
“We had already planned a farm market that day, so we thought – why not turn it into a “Burgers on the Grill Benefit,” says Amy Starr of Crosscut Solutions Greenhouse. “The Meidam’s are a well known and respected family in the community so it didn’t take long before the necessary supplies were donated. John Smith, of John’s Manawa Steak House, was one of the larger contributors, donating the majority of the hamburger and doing the grilling.”
“Over 750 burgers and hot dogs combined were sold, with all the proceeds going to the family,” said Starr. “We also had a donation jar. An anonymous donor pledged to match the first $1,000, and that goal was achieved early in the day.”
The generosity did not stop here. “We had so many offers to donate items that we started, “Operation Diaper Genie” as well.” Starr went on to say, “It was great to see everyone walking up with a bag of diapers. We had enough to fill two large boxes!”
“This community is amazing,” said Shawn Buchholz, who attended the event. “They can really come together in a time of need.”
Starr added “It was a day to remember Justin; a time to help his family. And let’s remember, we are a little town, with a BIG heart.”
Upcoming events include:
•Community Bake Sale at Baylake Bank on Friday, Sept. 2, from 8:30-4:30.
•A Benefit for the Justin Meidam Family will be held Sunday, Sept 4, 10 am – 8 pm, at Shauni B’s, Ogdensburg. There will be a silent auction, raffle, pig roast, and music. Anyone wishing to donate to this can call Liz at 920-460-0147.
•In addition, Manawa Chamber of Commerce will be donating the $5 registration fees from the City Wide Rummage Sale Part Two, to the Meidam family.