by heather stanek • The Reporter hstanekfdlreporter.com • May 31, 2009 For Fond du Lac resident Fran Flint, the ideal summer involves a crackling
fire, marshmallows on a stick and a circle of happy adults and children. Only one thing could make it better &mdash bringing dollars and peace of mind to cash-strapped parents and those who can’t pay their rent. Fran said the idea came from his childhood. He loved sitting around the fire with family and friends, sharing stories and listening to the outdoors. Fran, now in his 80s, wishes the same for today’s children. “Every person growing up ought to have the experience of a wiener roast,” he said. The roast has a larger mission than making memories. The Flints are using it to draw attention to charities, including St. Vincent de Paul and the United Way. Even though the roast isn’t open to the public, people can still help the cause by donating to these organizations, he said. “They don’t have all the money they need to meet all the needs,” said Fran. “We hope that it will provide inertia for the larger goal the United Way has set for this year.”
Fond du Lac’s destitute need more help than ever due to the recession. United Way Executive Director Tina Potter said the Family Resource Center needs money for baby supplies, especially diapers. She said times are tough for struggling parents.