The Salvation Army is once again thankful for the support the local community has given its foodbank.
A Community Fall Food Drive hosted at the Parkland Mall saw 473 pounds of food collected, said Lieutenant Samuel Tim.
In addition $725 in cash and gift certificates were collected which will be used to buy more food.
“It was a huge success for a first of its kind in the city,” said Tim, who added while he shouldn’t be after two years in the city, he was still surprised “by how giving people are here.”
In terms of giving, Tim said the ‘Growing Kindness Campaign’ has also went very well this year.
The campaign, the idea of Carrie Olson, encouraged people with gardens to grow a little extra to donate to the food bank, and since July there has been a steady stream of fresh produce, said Tim.
Tim said the idea was twofold, beginning with the conscious effort it took for gardeners to “think of the foodbank” even before planting the garden.
And, of course the fresh produce; ranging from carrots and beets to tomatoes, squash and zucchini, was a great addition to the food bank, said Tim, who noted often fresh produce is the last thing on the grocery list for those on a tight budget.
“It’s been a success helping people make healthier choices,” he said.
While the foodbank is a year-round effort, Tim said the Salvation Army is already gearing up for its annual Christmas campaign.
The process actually starts earlier this year, with applications for Christmas hampers beginning to be taken Oct. 15.
“We want to make sure nobody is left behind,” said Tim.
Applications are available at the foodbank, as well as other locations in the city and region which will be finalized in the next couple of weeks.
In 2018, the Salvation gave toys out to 114 children, and seasonal food hampers to 109 families.
