During a recent government meeting, council members celebrated the success of a pancake breakfast held to benefit the Berkeley Cares food pantry, which was designated as October's Berkeley Cares Month. Council member Patterson collaborated with other council members, including Hannon and Black, to organize the event, which saw participation from local nursing students who volunteered their time and efforts.
Despite initial concerns about low preregistration numbers, which stood at just ten attendees, the event gained traction thanks to community outreach. Bridget Marley, a local resident, leveraged her network through a Facebook post that encouraged sharing in exchange for donations, resulting in an additional $140 for the pantry. Another resident, Lisonbee Dillon, also contributed by volunteering at the event.
The pancake breakfast ultimately raised $965 for the food pantry, with council members covering food costs to ensure that all funds went directly to the cause. The collaboration between the pantry and local churches was highlighted as a strong example of community partnership, showcasing the importance of shared resources in addressing local needs. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn, reflecting a spirit of cooperation among council members.