By Brian McCready
Milford Bureau Chief
MILFORD — If Robert Gregory received royalties for coming up with Milford’s slogan, "A Small City with a Big Heart!" he would be a rich man.
The phrase was thrown around liberally at a press conference this week to announce the kickoff of the second annual "Butternut Buddy Month" fundraiser to help the Beth El Shelter.
Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. and the owners of Bobette’s Take Out, Bobette Moore and Gary Caulfied, held the press conference with Beth El Executive Director Toni Dolan.
Last year, Bobette’s raised about $2,000 for the homeless shelter by selling their popular "Butternut Buddy" soup.
"This is a great program," said Richetelli, who was decked out in a Bobette’s T-shirt, publicizing the event.
"To raise $2,000 the first year is tremendous. Milford is a giving community. It’s people like Bobette and Gary and their customers that make Milford so caring. They live it. Milford really is a small city with a big heart."
Caulfield said he is grateful to Richetelli for helping to publicize the fundraiser, and declaring February "Butternut Buddy Month."
"This is so cool. We’re just blown away," Caulfield said. "It’s the best place to be."
Starting today, aThursday,nyone who frequents the 93 Boston Post Road deli can purchase the Butternut Buddy soup.
For every cup purchased, $1 will be donated to Beth El, with $2 donated for a bowl and $3 for a quart. T-T-shirts may be purchased for $20 along with bracelets.shirts and bracelets may be purchased for $20 each.
"People love the butternut bisque, and it not only helps the Beth El, but people get a great soup," Caulfield said. "We wanted to make it a win-win."
Moore said she and Caulfield came up with the idea because they feel blessed by their successes and just "want to give something back to Milford."
Dolan said money that comes through such fundraisers is integral to the success of the agency.
TWith state funds shrinking and more non-profits popping up, fundraisers are necessary to help fund programs.he funds raised help the agency provide a parenting program, or to purchase books or games for children.
"With something like this, it’s the community connectedness," Dolan said. "We’re recognized by being a part of the community. This helps out truly those who are less fortunate. It speaks the spirit of this community."