Food Bank in critical need

The Food Bank of Manatee County today launched a campaign urging local businesses, clubs, civic organizations and residents to help fill its shelves with food for the needy.

The Food Bank distributes food to more than 100 local food pantries, churches and soup kitchens in the area. In January, it received 61,205 pounds of food. But in June, that figure dropped to just 16,616 pounds.

“It’s critical that we get the support of the community right now,” said Sheri Aiello, vice president of marketing and community relations for The Food Bank. “We urgently need cereal, peanut butter, canned fruit, canned soup, spaghetti sauce and canned vegetables to help our families in need.”

For information, visit thefoodbankofmanatee.org.