LIFE@Elon celebrated its 15th anniversary by hosting a food drive for SAFE, a local food pantry in Alamance County. The community came together and collected 1,192 food items and raised $1,880.
This event wasn’t just a party; it aimed to help those in need. As Susan Patton, a member of LIFE@Elon, pointed out, food pantries often experience a drop in donations after the holiday season, even though the need remains high all year. This drive was a perfect way to make a difference when it mattered most.
Members were encouraged to contribute throughout April. Although the original goal was to gather 1,500 food items, the group surpassed expectations with generous financial donations. Billy Rintz, another member, expressed gratitude for all the ways SAFE helps families: “It felt great to support such a worthy cause.”
SAFE serves approximately 8,000 families annually from three locations in Alamance County. According to recent data, food insecurity continues to be a pressing issue. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported that around 10.5% of households faced food scarcity in recent years, highlighting the ongoing need for community support.
Participants like Susan Klopman, an emerita vice president of LIFE@Elon, delivered three carloads of donations in person. “It was a wonderful way to celebrate our anniversary by directly helping those in need,” she said.
This food drive not only marks a milestone for LIFE@Elon but also reinforces the importance of community support in tackling food insecurity. For more information on SAFE and how you can contribute, visit their website.
