Food Banks Need Our Constant Support

    Even during hard times, people have to eat.

    And it is heartwarming to see the public support local food banks are receiving.

    Over the weekend and again on Monday 3/30, News Channel 7 told you about the “Food From the Heart” food drive that was going on in the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina.

    My wife and I encountered it first hand as we made a grocery stop at the Cedar Spring Bi-Lo in Spartanburg during Saturday’s rain. 

    As we walked toward the store entrance, a very friendly woman approached and told us about the food drive.  She handed us a list of suggested food items and a red plastic bag to put the items in so we could easily keep them separate from the groceries we were buying for our household.

    We purchased several items, and as we left the store, we handed the red bag to another volunteer for the food drive.  With a big smile, he thanked us and packed the bag into one of several carts that customers had filled with donations.

    I told my wife to wait under the walkway with our groceries while I got our truck.

    As I drove up, the food drive volunteers were standing by, and they loaded the groceries for us.  I didn’t expect them to do this, but I certainly appreciated the help.

    I also appreciated the opportunity they gave Gayle and me to help our community.

    And I enjoy doing business with stores that are community-minded.  Bi-Lo impressed me with its support of the food drive.

    The food drive brought in over 90 tons of food for Carolina families in need of assistance.  Many of them need this help for the first time in their lives, victims of the economic downturn.

    Food banks need more than a one-time donation.  They need constant help to restock their supplies so that no one in need has to be turned away.

    Here are the kinds of things food banks generally ask you donate:

    Meals in easy-open cans (soups, stews, etc.)
    Rice, dried beans, pasta
    Cereal
    Canned vegetables and fruits
    Personal hygiene items including soap, toothpaste, shaving supplies, deodorant, shampoo
    Baby items:  formula, cereal, diapers, wipes
    Paper products:  paper towels, toilet paper, etc.
    Some food banks take donations of clothing items that are in good condition.  I also hear a lot of requests for socks and underwear.  Of course, money is always appreciated, and food banks know how to stretch a dollar.

    Let’s all pitch in… as much and as often as we can.

    It’s a good way for those who feel blessed (and who isn’t) to say “thanks.“