SONGA TO SING-A. Mario and Sherry Friede make up the folk duo Songa. (Submitted photo)

Sherry Friedel and Tiffany Woghan describe the people of Chippewa Falls as givers. Both are members of the First Presbyterian Church in Chippewa Falls: Friedel is choir director and half of the musical duo, Songa, while Woghan is the administrative assistant and part of the food pantry board of directors. Both are involved in an upcoming benefit concert at First Presbyterian which will raise money for their food pantry.

The concert is Sunday, Oct. 9, from 4-5:15pm and will feature a performance by Songa as well as a dinner afterwards.

The food pantry started off as a single bag in someone’s office and has grown to working with different organizations in the area. Along with the food pantry, First Presbyterian Church hosts blood drives, offers a weekly free clinic, and offers housing and gas resources.

Songa, a folk/blues duo, will be playing lots of hopeful, uplifting music with some contemporary Christian songs mixed in at the benefit concert.

“We try to combine the harmonies, and the relaxing feel of the music with some inspiring text,” Friedel explained. “Hopefully people will leave a little lighter than they came.”

Through this concert, they hope to bring attention to their food pantry while also gaining donations for their expanding endeavor. From January to August, the food pantry served 1,149 households and 3,114 individuals. It saw 1,161 new people during this time. 

While donations are greatly appreciated, Friedel and Woghan said it’s just as important to show up. By doing so, there are more community members who are aware and able to point those in need towards individuals and organizations that can help.

“It’s to raise awareness,” Woghan said. “This is real. People are struggling in so many ways. People are hungry, and we just want to help in any way that we can.”

Learn more at songaduo.com and fpcchippewa.org/missions.