By Staff
From Press, Staff Reports
The Atmore Area Christian Care Ministry Board of Volunteers has designated November as Food Harvest Month in the community. This will feature a full month to encourage, educate and citizens participate in Atmore's food drive.
Schools, churches, clubs and businesses and individuals are encouraged to collect and contribute non-perishable food items to the Atmore Area Christian Care Food Pantry.
The Food Pantry has been in operation since January of 2001. Last year, more than 22,000 food items were received and distributed in the local community.
Last year, schools were especially helpful with donations, bringing in more than 5,000 canned goods to be used during the holiday season. Local schools are being asked to donate again this year.
This year, the need has actually risen due to the loss of jobs and a slow economy. While the need has risen throughout the year, donations have lessened during the year, making it more difficult to meet all needs. With the holiday season being one of the busiest times of the year for the Food Pantry, donations become even more crucial.
All food is provided free of charge to hungry individuals and families. The Food Pantry is fully staffed by volunteers who distribute food as it is available. The primary source for local food is donations through churches and the Letter Carriers Food Day in May. Currently, the stores are low and all donations will be appreciated.
The Food Pantry works with the County Department of Human Resources to encourage and direct those with chronic needs to the Food Stamp Program. The AACCM Food Pantry exists for those who have emergency or crisis needs and temporarily need a source for food.
A list of the most needed food items includes: beef stew, baked beans, dried beans or peas, corn meal, flour, sugar, rice, pasta, canned fruit and juice, canned meat, cooking oil, peanut butter, chicken and dumplings, canned fish, corned beef, macaroni and cheese, crackers, soap bars, beanie weenies, canned or stewed tomatoes, lima beans, soup, jelly, canned milk, tea bags and coffee.
During November, the Atmore Schools and churches are encouraged to receive food throughout the month for the Food Pantry. Donations can be delivered, or pick-up can be arranged by calling 446-3476 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday.