Local food bank donors wage war against hunger

While Hurricane Michael took its toll on the Florida Panhandle, residents of that area who chose to stay continue to deal with the after effects, such as the lack of water, food, cleaning supplies and electricity.

Some chose to journey further north to stay with friends or relatives until a more permanent decision is made as to when and if they will return to their homes.

Recently, some of those displaced Floridians were served by the local Food Bank, on Carr Street in Fulton, and fortunately, the facility is equipped to meet the needs of those who reside in this area, as well as those passing through, through the offering of emergency boxes to those in need.

According to Ginger Bard, one of the volunteers with the Food Bank program, a family of 10 was assisted, after they were forced to evacuate because of the hurricane.

Last week, as many waited in line for a box containing all food groups, such as canned fruits and vegetables, pasta, rice, dairy and protein items, a number of volunteers worked to make sure the boxes were packed and ready. That task actually includes preparations which begin with unloading trucks and stocking shelves at the food bank, and could end with assistance in transporting the box to the recipient’s vehicle.

While eligibility to receive the food boxes is income based, as it relates to defined poverty status, as well as seniors age 60 and older, Bard noted some of the individuals and families who receive the food boxes may be employed, or receive some government assistance, however the food bank is still able to provide the items in the event food runs short toward the end of the month. Those served in the Fulton, Hickman, Fulton County and South Fulton areas must provide proof of residency.

On the average, 275 families are served each month.

Area churches have provided ongoing financial assistance to the Food Bank, as well as the 25 active volunteers who work consistently with the program.

As the holiday season approaches, and throughout the year, those interested in contributing to the food bank program, with food items or through monetary donations may mail contributions to Ken-Tenn Food Bank, P.O. Box 1274, Fulton, Ky. 42041.

Donations may be made in honor of, or in memory of a loved one, with Food Bank volunteers acknowledging the gift by forwarding a written correspondence to the honoree or their family member.

National Food Bank week, Oct. 17-21, is an annual recognition of the importance of food banks in the fight against hunger in the United States.

Globally, according to statistics, 805 million people live with hunger on a daily basis.

In America, one in eight people struggle with hunger each day. Often, the difference between food security and hunger could be the loss of a job, a sudden emergency, an illness or other factors.