MURPHREESBORO — The Murphreesboro Volunteer Fire Department is hosting a June 24 fundraiser for veteran firefighter Marenda Starnes.
A number of years ago, Starnes, now in her 50s, donated a kidney to help a Grenada County man. Recently, her remaining kidney was surgically removed due to cancer.
She currently finds herself traveling to Greenwood several days each week for dialysis.
“Marenda has been an active member of the fire department since 1993,” Murphreesboro fireman Wayne Gore wrote in a fundraiser publicity announce-ment submitted to The Sun-Sentinel. “She is a certified firefighter by the Mississippi State Fire Academy.”
The fundraiser for Starnes will be held Saturday, June 24, from 4-7 p.m. at the firehouse eight miles southeast of Charleston on Tallaha Road.
The menu will consist of pulled pork plates featuring baked beans, slaw and a drink for $15 per plate. Pulled pork sandwiches also will be available for purchase.
There will be cake, pie, cookie and candy auctions during the course of the day.
Food tickets will be sold in advance by Murphreesboro firemen but may also be purchased at the door on the day of the event.
Proceeds will be used to assist Starnes with traveling expenses to and from Greenwood and other doctors’ appointments, co-pays and medical expenses that insurance does not cover, as well as her regular living expenses.
While supporters hope to see a large crowd at the firehouse on June 24, anyone who cannot make it in person that day can help by sending a donation for Starnes.
Gore said checks should be made payable to Marenda Starnes in care of Wayne Gore, 2199 Pumping Station Road, Scobey, MS 38953.
Murphreesboro Fire Chief William McCammon encouraged the public to take part in the fundraising effort one way or another, noting, “Your prayers and support will be appreciated.”
For more information about any aspect of the upcoming fundraiser for Starnes, contact McCammon at 662-647-7541 or call Gore at 662-647-2573.
