17th Annual “Hunger Hurts Food Drive” sponsored by Berea College’s Center for Excellence in Learning Through Service (CELTS) and Students for Appalachia (SFA) set for Nov. 7, 2009

Kick off for this community-wide event is set for 8:30 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Woods Penniman Building on the Berea Campus.  Work will begin at the Food Bank at 103 Parkway Ave. in Berea at 9:30 a.m. Food will be collected until 2 p.m.

The Berea Food Bank served more than 600 southern Madison County families last year and is sponsored by Berea Faith Community Outreach, Inc. (BFCO).  Many individuals, churches, schools, businesses and organizations contribute food or money throughout the year. Donations collected during the Food Drive will supply the pantry for the winter and provide food to many families during the holiday season.

From Sunday November 1 to Wednesday November 4, teams of volunteers will distribute grocery bags to each household in the community.  If you would like to help, simply fill the bag with non-perishable food items and place it by your door by 9 a.m. on Nov. 7 for pick-up.  Suggested items include canned fruits or vegetables, juices, jelly, peanut butter, tuna, salmon, pasta sauce, pork and beans, instant potatoes, spaghetti, crackers, corn bread mix, hot cereals, dry cereals, rice, dried fruits, beans, sugar, cooking oil, and flour.  Needed also are non-food products such as deodorant, hand or body soap, shampoo, tooth paste and brushes, dish soap, and cleaning materials.

In addition to food donations, there is also the opportunity to contribute to a second BFCO, Inc. project.  Bereans United for Utility and Rent Relief (BUUR) provides emergency assistance with rent and utility bills. This program is by appointment only and may be accessed by calling 985-1903 to schedule an appointment. A flyer about BUURR and an envelope for donations will also be attached to the grocery bag.

SFA welcomes volunteers and donations in any form for this cause.  For more information or to volunteer, please contact Sheila Lyons at (859)-985-3935 or Heather Schill at (859) 985-3804, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.