La Dolce Casa in Tamaqua was one of seven Schuylkill County restaurants that took part in the 17th annual Dine-Out Benefit this evening (Tuesday, April 8, 2014) to benefit programs of Schuylkill Wellness Services (SWS).
During the event, each restaurant would donate 20 percent of their evening proceeds to the program.
In addition to donating proceeds, each restaurant would allow SWS volunteers to sell raffle tickets inside their establishment. First prize is $1,000 cash. Second prize is a $250 Lowe’s gift card. Third prize is a three-day/two night mid-week stay for two at Cove Haven Resorts in the Poconos (includes 2 meals). Fourth prize is a round of golf and lunch for two at Mountain Valley Golf Course.
Other participating restaurants this evening included Francesco’s in Shenandoah, Greystone in Pottsville, Vito’s Coal Fire in St. Clair, Roman Delight in Orwigsburg, The Brick House in Orwigsburg, and Oak Hill Inn in Orwigsburg.
SWS, a program unit of Co-County Wellness Services, was founded in 1997 as a program unit of Berks AIDS Network. Originally an AIDS-specific organization, the agency now provides services related to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and Hepatitis.
Organizers of the local Tamaqua were Samantha Gibbons and Linda Marchalk. Both praised Alfie Picone (owner of La Dolce Casa) and everyone who donated or showed their patronage in support of the fundraiser. “It was packed for two hours straight,” said Marchalk.
Gibbons said tickets are still available for sale by calling her at (570) 668-6954 or Marchalk at (570) 668-5321. Tickets are $3 each or four for $10. The drawing will be held April 22.
Schuylkill Wellness Services offers prevention education and HIV and STD testing to an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 people per year.
For more information, call (570) 622-3980 or visit http://www.cocountywellnessservices.org/schuylkill.asp.
Schuylkill Wellness Services is a participating agency of the Schuylkill United Way.