The smell of fish and chips permeated the air, intermingled with the laughter and chatter from a room full of local residents at the Helping Hands auction at Alberton’s River Edge Restaurant on Saturday. Over 100 bidders enjoyed a meal and drink with friends and neighbors, while raising money for a good cause.

“This is our 20th auction,” said Sally Beal, who was one of the original organizers of the event. “We started this at the Sportsman Bar (in Alberton) one night. We passed the hat and raised enough money to go to the dollar store in Missoula and buy gifts for needy children.” 

Since then, the auction has turned into an annual event. Where people gather to have a good time, socialize and raise funds.

“We enjoy this every year,” said Ray Hagle, the owner of River Edge, “my mother, Dottie, was one of the original members. It’s great to see the community come out and support this. And it’s fun to see the same faces year after year.”

Auctioneer, D.K. Mitchell, has also been with the organization for 20 years, calling on people as they bid on items like a cord of wood, a mushroom kit, and even a live turkey.

Between $5,000 to $7,000 is raised each year, with over 40 items donated from local residents and businesses. Funds raised are used to help out around 13 families in need. The money is used to buy Christmas gifts for the kids, and a couple of months’ worth of food for the families. 

“We don’t just serve the Alberton area,” said Beal, “but families from Lolo to De Borgia. Where ever there’s a need.”

According to Beal, the bulk of the funds raised are used for the holidays, but Helping Hands helps people in need throughout the year. The organization has 13 board members and a number of other volunteers who help to make the auction, and other events, such a success.