As many Ohio University students and local residents make their plans for Thanksgiving, area charity organizations are working to provide for struggling families in the region.
A number of charities and nonprofit organizations are seeking volunteers and donations to help them help others during the time of the year with the most need.
The Southeast Ohio Regional Foodbank is asking for volunteers and donations this holiday season so it can continue to provide food and essential items to Athens, Gallia, Hocking, Jackson, Lawrence, Meigs, Morgan, Perry, Vinton and Washington counties.
“I’m in desperate need. During the cold months, the need has become greater,” spokeswoman Teresa Cline-Scurlock said. “More families are standing in line at our pantries. We can’t keep up with the (demand) with just the staff we have here.”
One in six Ohioans were food insecure in 2010, according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. About 4,000 residents older than 60 depend on packaged food boxes in Southeast Ohio every month.
“We are not alone. There are so many people that need volunteers (that) it is hard to get a commitment from people,” Cline-Scurlock said.
A familiar beer brand, Yuengling & Son Inc., and its local distributor, Classic Brands Athens, are teaming up with the Southeast Ohio Foodbank by donating 50 cents per case purchased within the region to the food bank during the holiday season.
“We are excited about this partnership,” said Tracey Galway, who oversees the food bank. “Local support is critical … and every dollar makes a huge impact to those who struggle daily with the choices of whether to put food on the table or pay the bills.”
A little closer to OU, United Campus Ministry provides weekly opportunities throughout the year, including the holidays, when student and community volunteers can plan, prepare, serve and clean up Thursday suppers and Saturday lunches for low-income community members.
This Thanksgiving, the organization is cooking a special dinner for local residents and asks for the help of anyone still in the area during the break.
“Help during these times is a testament of true generosity. People may not need the food but want to share in the sense of community,” said director Melissa Wales. “Students have always said it was a transformative experience for them to sit down and engage.”
Other organizations that are accepting volunteers, donations, food and toys include Big Brothers Big Sisters of Athens County, Athens County Children Services and The Salvation Army, as well as ventures by many on-campus groups.
ag881210@ohiou.edu
