|
|
Friday, August 29, 2008
|
|
Salvation Army appeals for food for food shelf
Staff Writer The shelves are (almost) bare and the Salvation Army is asking for your help during September to stock the food shelf.
Salvation Army Maj. Jeff Strickler said the food shelf needs help to get by until the next major food drive by the Boy Scouts in October. Otherwise, it may run out of food.
"We're not currently turning people away but we'd hate for that to happen to us in September, which is the likelihood if we don't see things turn around," said Strickler.
Strickler said the need for food has increased and donations are down.
In June 2007, the food shelf served 490 individuals with 11,020 pounds of food. In June 2008, 745 individuals were provided with 17,125 pounds of food. In July 2007, 603 individuals were served with 13,100 pounds of food while in July 2008, 657 individuals were served with 14,560 pounds of food.
Strickler said there seems to be two reasons for the increase in need. The rising cost of gas and food has caused people who were just barely making it last year to be falling behind financially. Also, the lack of steady employment appears to be a factor. Many of those who frequent the food shelf hold lower-paying jobs, said Strickler.
Another problem is the decrease in donations. He said in July 2007, the food shelf took in donations of 5,485 pounds of food and spent $1,058.12 on purchasing food. In July 2008, the food shelf took in 3,135 pounds of food and spent $2,794.83.
Strickler said the food shelf has about $1,100 left in its budget to spend on food through September, the end of its fiscal year, and that won't be enough with the high demand.
"It has been extremely busy here," said Strickler. "We're not waiting until the shelves are totally bare but we are getting concerned about it."
To donate to the food shelf, checks may be sent to the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 385, Brainerd, MN 56401. Make sure to note on your check that it is for the food shelf. Those who wish to drop off a check or food donations may visit the food shelf during regular business hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays at 208 S. Fifth St. in Brainerd.
JODIE TWEED may be reached at jodie.tweed@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5858.
To Subscribe to the Brainerd Dispatch, Click Here.
Note: Comments are not edited and don't represent the views of The Brainerd Dispatch. Please read our posting rules in the terms of service policy. To report a post that may be inappropriate, click the triangle alert icon.
|
|
|
|
Thinking about a New Job?
These employers want you!
|
Loading...
|
|
|
Today's Best Classifieds:
|
|
|
|
|
|
