By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Through the Grace of God Ministries will hold its annual fundraiser banquet on Oct. 4 at 6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Clanton.

“It’s a wonderful night,” event organizer Sunday Hosch said.

The event will include a sit-down dinner with a variety of dessert options, music, a silent auction and a live auction.

Award winning singer/ songwriter Tina Wakefield will be the night’s musical guest, Hosch said.

Pastor Royce Ellison will emcee the evening and present information about Through the Grace of God Ministries.

Tickets are $40 per person or $300 for a table for eight.

Those interested in donating to either of the auctions can contact Through the Grace of God Ministries at (205) 755-8199.

Deadline to donate is Sept. 28.

“We would be glad to pick it up, come by, whatever is convenient for them,” Hosch said.

Traditionally, the auction features desserts from local restaurants, trips, jewelry, sports-related items and pictures.

“We usually have a good combination of stuff,” Hosch said.

Hosch said the event has many people that attend year after year. In addition to these loyal participants, Hosch said the organization is working to have some first-time attendees this year.

Funds raised through the event will ensure the ministry can continue serving the community.

“We serve five meals a week,” Hosch said. “Then, we also have a clothes ministry.”

They also have a food bank.

Since the ministry receives clothing donations on an ongoing basis, storage space has become a challenge for the ministry. A long-term hope for the organization is to open a thrift store to generate more funds to help more people and have a more organized way to find correct sizes, etc.

“We could just give people a voucher,” Hosch said, giving the example of someone who had lost their house in a fire.

To purchase tickets or for more information, call (205) 755-8199.

The preferred deadline to purchase tickets is Sept. 28.