Food bank donation honors volunteer work of Mary Combs

PALMER — Just in time for the holidays, the Palmer Food Bank got a cash infusion from local and state Democrats in memory of Palmer Mayor John Combs’ mother.

Mary Combs, who passed away recently, was instrumental in helping with the operation of the food bank from its inception, said Henry Guinotte, the food bank’s manager.

As the wind began to pick up speed outside Monday, members of the Combs family, along with local Democratic Party representatives, stood surrounded by cans and other food stacked to the ceiling in the food bank.

Armed with checks — $250 from the state Democrats and $935.55 from local Democrats — Mat-Su Democrats Treasurer Carolyn Covington presented the gift to Guinotte.

The donated money came from charitable gaming permits, Covington said.

With a handshake and words of remembrance for Mary Combs, the food bank officially received a little help just days before Christmas.

Guinotte said the money would go in the general fund for the bank, helping with everyday expenses and keeping the food bank operational for those who need it.

But without people like Mary Combs, Guinotte said the food bank might not exist. He credits the organization’s success over the years to her hard work and dedication.

To Mayor Combs, the donation in his mother’s name reaffirms what he and his family have known for years

“It means a recognition of all the years she was part of the community,” Combs said.

Part of the Mat-Su Anti-Hunger Network, the Palmer Food Bank dates back to 1946.

Guinotte, a jovial man, said he can remember when the Mat-Su Borough was small enough that food bank workers knew who neede d help. Now, with the rapid expansion of the borough’s population, Guinotte said times have changed and the operation of the food bank has changed with it.

But Monday morning was all about Mary Combs, the work she did at the food bank and the legacy she left.

“People have opened their hearts up,” Mayor Combs said of the donations.

Contact Michael Rovito at michael.rovito@frontiersman.com or 352-2252.