Miriam's Table to celebrate 10 years of service with Oct. 13 event

Miriam's Table opened its doors Oct. 13, 2014 in the Mpasa Region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where malnutrition is the No. 1 cause of death in children. In all, 65 children, ages 1 to 13, were fed. Over the last decade, the center has grown to provide daily meals for 350 children, offer preventative medications for parasitic diseases, and supply fresh water to the entire community.

Prior to the start of the nutrition program, children in the community were dying of starvation. Adequate nourishment has not only improved the children's health and vitality, but also improved their performance at school. A new well, funded in partnership with the Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Rotary Club, protects children from waterborne diseases, which was the second most common cause of death. Miriam's Table graduates, now in their early 20s, have found jobs or built small businesses, and have started families of their own.

Local founders, Ed and Susie Keefer, and Miriam's Table board members invite the public to join them for a celebration event at 6 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 13, at Bethel United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall in Lewes. Music will be presented by YM2, along with videos and pictures of Miriam's Table history. Cake and ice cream will be shared. Reservations are appreciated. Call or text Susie at 814-673-4148 or email susie.keefer5950@gmail.com.