By By Lisa Tindell
Food banks and other public services may find more traffic in their locations this year than in previous years with those who serve blaming the economy for the situation.
The Rev. Monroe Tucker, organizer for the Atmore Area Christian Care Ministry food bank, said donations have begun to pick up.
As donations have recently begun to increase, the need has seen a dramatic increase as well.
With the state of the economy being blamed for the increase in need for services like those offered by Atmore Area Christian Care Ministry, local community organizers are doing their part to help out.
Deborah Camp, a customer service representative at United Bank, said the annual Alabama/Auburn food drive at their location has been respectable. Camp serves as the team captain for Auburn in the drive competition.
Camp said the drive usually sees the majority of donations come in at the end of the drive.
One local business is joining the ranks of donators by calling on the community to contribute to the cause.
Wendy Blanton, clerk at Atmore Vision Center, said the drive currently underway at their office, is one that is intended to assist those in need this holiday season.
Nikki Dole, director of operations at Atmore Vision Center, said the collection is going well.
Blanton said those who bring in food items to be distributed will receive a prize of their own.
Tucker said criteria for receiving assistance from AACCM must be met before services can be provided.
Tucker said assistance may also be available for utility bills and gasoline for those who must go out of town for doctor’s visits.
Tucker said donations of food and money are always welcome at AACCM.
Atmore Area Christian Care Ministry is located at 105 N. Pensacola Ave., and can be reached at 446-3476.