Recently, the couple came up with a new initiative, one that they plan to continue annually — Giving Back to the Haven.

According to Dale, the idea came about as the two noticed the number of individuals in need within the community.

This was compounded when they discussed this with friends.

“We were seeing people who don’t have basic necessities which I was hearing through feedback from friends and other business owners,” Dale said.

PHOTO PROVIDED A group of people are pictured enjoying a meal at the Givng Back to the Haven event.

He explained there can be instances where someone may use a public restroom and take hygiene products and other supplies because they can’t afford to purchase their own.

The idea to do something was further cemented during his time volunteering to offer hotdogs at the annual Clinton County Night Out held each year in August.

“It sparked something in me,” he said.

Ultimately, Dale said he and Lara decided to hold an event to offer a hot meal and hygiene products and shelf stable, ready made items to those in need.

Dale credits Lara for turning it into more than just a hot meal.

PHOTOS PROVIDED Some of the boxes of available items are pictured.

“She said we had to do more than just chicken,” he said.

From there, the couple began reaching out to various companies and individuals to gather donations of hygiene products, and ready made items such as crackers, cookies, chips and other meals that don’t require any preparations.

“We decided to tie it in with the Veterans Day holiday to give back to veterans and just people without homes in need,” Dale told The Express.

The idea came to fruition on Monday, Nov. 10, at East Fire Company along Church Street.

Dale said they gave away 304 meals that included chicken, sides and a drink. He noted they actually ran out of meals about an hour before the event was to end.

PHOTOS PROVIDED People line up for the event.

“We had about eight or nine people come in, and I sent them to the Old Corner to use one of the tickets on our Hunger Board,” he said.

He said the event was free to anyone in need, there were no questions asked, adding some even took meals to-go for the children who were still in school.

“We didn’t ask any questions. You were there because you needed something,” he said. “Some of the people there were low income or relied on benefits. They took a hit during the government shutdown.”

He noted toothpaste and toothbrushes were a big hit among those who attended the event.

“Things that you and I might take for granted, you know? Just getting up every morning and being able to brush your teeth. There are some who can’t because of their situation,” Dale said.

Dale also reflected on the huge show of support that came from the community, noting they turned out in a big way.

“Someone even wrote a check out to pay for all of the chicken,” he said. “It was unbelievable the support we received.”

He added members of the Leadership Clinton County program and Salvation Army, among others, turned out the day-of to volunteer their time and Coleman’s Landscaping even gave away a Christmas tree.

Due to the success, Dale said he’s planning to hold it again in 2026. He noted he may push the date into September or during a time when the weather is warmer.

“Next year I’d like to add onto it, maybe hold a coat drive or a blanket drive, too,” he said.

Dale and his wife thanked all those who helped make the event a success including: Addies, Bald Eagle Beer Distributor, Big Mountain Disposal, Clinton County Leadership Program, Coleman’s Landscaping, East Side Fire Company, First Quality, Salvation Army, Schlesinger Communications, Clinton County Veterans Affairs and all anonymous donors.

Ultimately, Dale said he’s grateful for the success of the event and the continued support of the community.

“As long as I’m able to, I’ll continue to put these events on each year,” he said.