If anybody has earned the title, “philanthropist,” in Simsbury, it’s John Bannan. Among his many contributions, John purchased 13 defibrillators for the Simsbury police and others in town. But the town knows John best for his annual efforts during Thanksgiving , during which he contributes significant time, resources, food, and related items to benefit the poor and less fortunate. The centerpiece of John’s efforts is the Turkey Fund Project, a turkey donation drive he established in 1993.
The Turkey Fund Project has a yearly goal of obtaining 5,000 turkeys and associated perishable items for Thanksgiving. Bannan accomplishes this by posting event flyers, coordinating with local food stores, and over 300 volunteers who work to procure the necessary storage space and delivery vehicles. The group forwards food items to FoodShare in Windsor CT. FoodShare then distributes these items to the needy.
But John doesn’t limit his good works to the holiday season. For instance, he delivers meals to senior citizens through the Meals on Wheels Program throughout the year. He also assists in the transportation of senior citizens of the community to their required destinations (i.e. doctor appointments).
John Bannan has given a lifetime of service for his family, community, and country. A WWII veteran, Bannan fought in the Battle of the Bulge, where the Nazis captured and held him prisoner for five months. After the War, Mr. Bannan won praise as an especially dedicated sixth grade teacher, a profession he viewed as a calling, and for which he worked for over 32 years. He has served as a member of the Board of Selectman for the town of Simsbury. He remains active in civic groups large and small, including the Lions Club, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Knights of Columbus. Although he doesn't seek attention for his work, Mr. Bannan has received numerous awards and citations for his continuing contributions. John Bannan lives his life according to his high principles and Simsbury’s best aspirations.
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