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Food bank in need of support from community
The Yuma Community Food Bank is in need of some serious financial assistance, but it can't do it without the community's help.
The food bank recently launched its “Step Up to the Plate” campaign, with the ultimate goal of raising $1.5 million. The funds will be used to purchase needed equipment as well as matching funds for food grants.
And, the funds will allow the food bank to serve more people. In 2012, it distributed 12 million pounds of food. Currently, it serves 24,000 people each month — staggering numbers.
Yuma County is in a precarious position. With one of the highest unemployment numbers in the nation comes a host of other issues, including a scary statistic: 43 percent of children here are food insecure, which means they don't know where their next meal is coming from. It's hard to fathom that so many children in Yuma County are at risk.
The food bank's campaign is a multi-pronged one, designed in such a fashion that almost anyone could help, in some way, shape or form. That's one of the many beautiful things about the residents of Yuma — they are always willing to pitch in, even if it's just a little. And the food bank knows from experience … every little bit helps.
Here are the ways people can “Step Up to the Plate:”
• The food bank is looking for donors who will pledge to match donations from the community.
• Business donations are also being sought, and those that pledge $10,000 will be honored in an project at the end of the campaign
• Community donations are always welcome. Donors can give $10 and sign a plate as a message of support to food bank customers. Plates will be available at a variety of businesses throughout the community.
• The food bank is asking individuals to serve as “Step Up to the Plate” partners, to rally family and friends while distributing 500 plates and raising $10 a plate.
• Businesses and organizations are also being asked to hold a working lunch, where they bring in a group of people to volunteer for one hour at the food bank, stuffing boxes or helping with office tasks.
The program got off to a generous start. An anonymous donor has pledged a matching contribution of $500,000. But the food bank has a long road ahead. To participate in the “Step Up to the Plate” campaign, call the Yuma Community Food Bank at 343-1243. Every little bit helps.
