Start a food drive for those in need

Food or hygiene drives are great ways to help our community. They are also a great way for students to get needed service hours. We are always in need of food for people in need. We are the largest food pantry in Marion county and can see up to 80 clients per day, so we go through it quickly. We also give hygiene bags to our clients and we are always in need of those items as well. Many of our clients are without jobs or have limited to no income and cannot afford to buy the simple things we take for granted each day. Collecting these items is easy, you can collect food and hygiene products on our behalf in several ways. Outside a grocery store, outside of our Thrift Store(when arrangements are made), within a group/club or school. You can also collect something specific with a theme to make it more attractive for people to donate. For example, a peanut butter and jelly drive for hungry children. Or October could be Socktober and groups or individuals can collect socks all month long. Please visit our website, iesmarion.org, for a list of our highest needs under the "Support" tab. Or feel free to email and request a list. When the collection is done, our warehouse is located at 450 NW 2nd Street. We are prepared to accept donations between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call our office with any questions.