Performances of a musical adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” raised more than $7,400 for the Community Food Bank.

A cast and crew staged four performances at the First Presbyterian Church in Grand Junction and covered the costs associated with the production. No admission was charged, but audiences were encouraged to donate to the food bank. A total of more than 900 people attended the four shows.

“We wanted to do something to give back to our community, and we are overwhelmed by the turnout and the generosity of our audiences,” said Joshua James, a local writer, director and actor who helped stage the production. “This was a labor of love for our cast and crew, and we honestly didn’t know what to expect. Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude.”

Alisha Wenger, executive director of the Community Food Bank, welcomed the donation. “With every $1 donated providing four nutritious meals, support from the ‘Christmas Carol’ community production will help provide over 30,000 nutritious meals to those in need. These generous donations will help spread love and light to many this Christmas season, and well into the New Year.”

The Community Food Bank has served Mesa County for nearly 45 years, providing a weekly choice food pantry, home delivery program and nutrition education. The organization has quadrupled its services since 2019.

“We are here to help lift up our community in times of need,” Wenger said. “Year to date, we have distributed nearly 900,000 pounds of nutritious food to our Grand Valley neighbors in need.”