For two decades, the chiropractor has launched a (mostly) food drive for
the Jackson Interfaith Shelter, a member agency of the Food Bank of South
Central Michigan. The charity had to send two trucks to pick up about 100
bags and crates.
"I've been in Michigan Center for 25 years, and I wanted to give a
little bit back," said Mayo, whose office is at 4640 Page Ave.
Workplace giving is a key component in food drives around the holidays.
"This is the time of year when we stock up," said Kitrina Sims,
Interfaith Shelter manager. "Organizations help us carry through the
summer months when our donations are low."
Dozens of local businesses, schools and organizations pitch in to local
pantries, including the Salvation Army and Spring Arbor Free Methodist
Church, another Food Bank member agency.
Donations are steady, volunteers report, but there are always
sought-after items.
Interfaith's wish list includes coffee, cereal and canned goods to
feed its 55 residents. Call 789-8735.
Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church could use pork and beans,
soup, gelatin and canned fruit. Call 750-2400.
The Salvation Army. a member of the Food Bank, needs fresh and
frozen chicken and turkeys, canned tuna, baby formula, diapers and
toothbrushes. Call 782-7185.
The Food Bank of South Central Michigan in Battle Creek feeds the
most Jackson County residents. Distributing about 4.5 million pounds
of food to eight counties -- and counting -- this year, the bank
distributes 605,000 pounds in Jackson County alone.
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That's a total of 92,000 people helped in their eight-county
region that includes Jackson County. Thirty-nine percent of those
receiving food from the Food Bank are children.
Florence Crittenton Services, Interfaith Shelter, John George
Home, the Salvation Army and 14 local churches receive donations.
The program is supported through the United Way of Jackson County.
It's hard for Jackson County residents to drive almost an hour to
drop off cases of beef stew at the food bank. So the nonprofit
encourages financial donations, noting that donors are eligible for
the Michigan Tax Credit.
"We can buy in bulk," said Dan Salerno, Food Bank fund
development director. "That way their money goes further."
Married couples filing jointly may receive a credit of half
their gift up to $400. Single donors may see half of their donation
up to $200 appear as a tax bill credit. Donations may be sent to:
P.O. Box 408; Battle Creek, MI 49016. Call 269-264-3663.
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