Ellie Vandette is doing her part to spread awareness and raise money for Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels.  A member of the class of 2023 at Fredonia High School, this creative student organized and developed a Thanksgiving Pie Sale with proceeds supporting DFMOW’s Meal Fund.

Ellie was introduced to Meals on Wheels when her mother Emily stepped up to volunteer at the onset of the Covid-19 health crisis. It wasn’t long before Ellie joined her mother on her delivery route.

“I participated in MOW during the summer, and I saw the need in the community for elderly people to receive nutritious meals,” said Ellie.

An avid baker, Ellie felt that a pie fundraiser could help support the work Meals on Wheels does, especially around the holidays.

“Pies are a staple at Thanksgiving,” Emily asserted. “I enjoy baking and wanted to come up with an idea that everyone would love.”

With donations from Tops Friendly Markets and Meadows Farms, along with assistance from her mother, Ellie shopped for and handmade over 35 pies – including pumpkin, apple and pecan. The pie sale raised over $750 for Meals on Wheels.

“We were so excited when Ellie approached us with her idea,” said Debra Pacos, Executive Director. “She followed through, got donations and worked countless hours to pull it off – we can’t thank her enough.”

“I’m very grateful for everyone who bought pies and/or donated to the fundraiser and helped make it a success,” said Ellie. 

Ellie shopped for and hand made 35 pies.
Close to 200 meals were funded because of Ellie’s hard work.