 "We are very encouraged by
the tremendous support from IGA stores
during this very difficult year for many families and households,"
said Rebecca Van Nydeggen, Keest Center director.IGA stores have
been host sites for the Red Kettle campaign for many years. This
Easter season, patrons of IGA stores will see food collection bins
in the store lobbies as well as the iconic kettles. Shoppers may
give food items or simply donate financially in the kettles to
support The Salvation Army food pantry program.
400 percent increase in demand for food pantry
"We have seen a 400 percent increase over the last 18 months in
the number of families requesting food pantry support from The
Salvation Army," Van Nydeggen said.
Many families and individuals have never needed or received any
kind of assistance from any source in the past, having worked hard
and paid their bills for decades. Long-term unemployment, layoffs,
and reduced hours and benefits are all taking a toll on local
families and individuals as they cope with the rising cost of
living. Many are working or receiving a fixed stipend but still
struggling to keep food on the table.
The Salvation Army provides emergency assistance to families and
individuals in need, screening for food needs with every client
application and every request for aid. Food pantry support is
provided to clients within the context of case management services
that evaluate the broader circumstances a family or household is
facing. Those circumstances may include chronic or terminal medical
crisis, domestic violence, or loss of a wage-earner's income due to
injury or death, just to name a few.
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During the 2011 Easter season, members of the community can give
a tangible gift of hope to their neighbors in need by donating food
items or financial gifts. For more information on the Easter food
drive, call The Salvation Army Keest Center, 217-732-7890.
[Text from file received from
Rebecca Van Nydeggen]
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