Help address hunger

By Mike Farrell Persistent unemployment, more layoffs and other effects of an economy still struggling to regain its footing are leading a record number of area residents to seek out food banks and soup kitchens for assistance. Daily, hundreds of low-income residents of all ages in the area cannot afford well-balanced meals for their families and for themselves. The Greater Lansing Food Bank is a non-profit organization that provides emergency food to individuals and families in need. Many who have been forced to rely on the Food Bank for food never imagined they would need to request assistance, but barren cupboards and empty pockets have forced them to turn to local soup kitchens and food pantries for help. The Greater Lansing Food Bank provides assistance to individuals residing in a seven county area: Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Shiawassee, Gratiot, Clare and Isabella Counties. With unemployment in our state still over 7 percent, the need for food assistance continues to grow. Many households with two incomes have been reduced to one income, while many one income households have found themselves with no wage earner. Many who previously held a full-time position have had their hours reduced to part-time status. Many are forced to go without adequate food and nutrition. Without question, the lack of proper nutrition adversely impacts an individual's health and quality of life, adults, as well as children. The Greater Lansing Food Bank provides support to shelters, food pantries, soup kitchens and neighborhood distribution sites and holiday baskets to those in need in the seven mid-Michigan counties. The Food Bank's ability to serve children, families and individuals is directly related to and dependent upon the generosity of area citizens. With its already stretched food supply, the Food Bank will struggle to meet demand for food assistance over the holiday season. You can make a difference in the lives of hungry people who are our neighbors. Financial contributions are sorely needed. Donations by credit card may be made by calling the Greater Lansing Food Bank at (517) 853-7800. Online donations may be made at http://greaterlansingfoodbank.org/get-involved/give-money/donate-now. Payment may be made on the website by credit card or PayPal. Additionally, checks made out to the "Greater Lansing Food Bank" may be mailed to P.O. Box 16224, Lansing, MI 48901. Please look for the Greater Lansing Food Bank contribution envelope enclosed with this edition. Please use it. Your financial assistance and participation are needed and welcomed. Thank you in advance for supporting this worthy cause that helps to serve the needs of those in our communities. Published: Mon, Nov 24, 2014