Minersville Area Holiday Food Drive: Bringing Hope to Families
In Minersville, local volunteers are once again gathering food for those in need this winter. The Minersville Area Holiday Food Drive started on November 8 and will run until February 28. This initiative, led by the Minersville Area Food Program, provides essential food items to various community members, including seniors, families, and individuals living in halfway houses.
On December 12, a special holiday distribution will occur, delivering boxes filled with turkeys, hams, and other food to 75 to 100 families in the area. Ed Butler, who founded the pantry in 1984, explains that the drive aims to support economically disadvantaged families throughout the holiday season.
The pantry operates year-round to address food insecurity in the Minersville region. Butler, a member of the Minersville Lions Club, felt called to start the program after reflecting on local food challenges while planning a Christmas dinner years ago. “We were enjoying a steak dinner, but how many folks were struggling?” he recalls. This moment sparked a drive to lend a helping hand during the holidays.
Volunteers work hard to stock the pantry with a variety of items—non-perishables, canned goods, cereals, and drinks—all sourced from donations or purchased through contributions. Butler emphasizes that the success of the drive comes from a shared concern for those facing hunger, both locally and globally.
Last year, the pantry helped 75 families, each receiving a turkey and essential dry goods. As hunger remains a pressing issue, this community effort continues to make a significant impact.
Furthermore, in recent years, food banks across the U.S. have experienced increased demand. According to a report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food insecurity affects 10.5% of households. This statistic highlights the importance of local efforts like those of the Minersville Area Food Program.
The pantry is a beacon of hope, reminding us that together we can make a difference in addressing food insecurity in our communities. For those wanting to contribute or need assistance, they can reach out to the pantry at 570-544-2739 or send monetary donations to the Minersville Area Food Drive at 529 Lytle St., Minersville, PA 17954.
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