Opinion - Oct. 8, 2009

Food banks need help, too

Area food banks have a simple purpose. They exist to help those in need through donations of food and certain basic necessities.

This year has been harder than most. It has been harder on some residents. It surely has been harder on area food banks.

Although the recession has not hit Whitman County as hard as it has hit other areas, some wage earners have lost their jobs. Some dual income households now have but one provider.

It is in such times and such circumstances that food banks are meant to provide important assistance.

The problem this year is that food banks themselves are in trouble.

Increased demands on food banks have emptied their larders. Without extra help this year, they will not be able to meet the extra demand.

Helping to re-stock the local food banks can be easy. Simply buying an extra item to donate at every trip to the grocery store can add up fast and provide a tremendous amount of assistance. It is easy, too. Agencies throughout the county can suggest what is most needed. Some grocery stores provide special packages of food that are designed to be donated.

Once bought, it is not even necessary to lug around the donations. Numerous collection points are and will be available. Most grocery stores will have a donation point. Most communities will have multiple locations which accept donations.

Also, organizations, such as the scouts, put on food drives. Because of the special needs this year, other collection efforts are shaping up. One is headed by the county Treasurer’s Office. They will be collecting food bank contributions at the courthouse. Traditionally, the office staff dresses in Halloween costumes on tax day when property taxes are due. This year, they decided it would be more appropriate to help collect donations of food.

Food banks can use cash, too. With donations of money, the volunteers can fill specific needs or stock up on most requested items.

Either way, with donations of food items or cash, food banks will be in the position to help those who may not be in the position to help themselves.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher