A Grand Challenge

MANATEE COUNTY — Twenty-five thousand pounds.

That number has leaders at The Food Bank of Manatee anxiously awaiting donations of food, as the Food Bank’s shelves have been drained to 15% capacity.

“Donations have been fairly steady, but the agencies we serve are having such an increase in demand for food assistance,” said Kristen Theisen, vice president of development for Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee, which operates The Food Bank. “Although there’s a slight improvement in the economy, there is a lot of underemployment. (People) aren’t making the costs of living.”

Normally, the Food Bank likes to keep 25,000 pounds of food on hand to distribute to local agencies and food pantries, Theisen said, noting the organization is currently rationing its supplies.

Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore and Manatee County School Board member Julie Aranibar have joined forces to assist the food bank, calling on local businesses, schools, churches and more to take action by raising 1,000 pounds of food or raising $1,000 for the cause during the month of September.

The “1,000-Pounds Grand Challenge,” a new month-long community initiative aimed at restocking The Food Bank’s shelves, officially launches Sept. 1, in keeping with September as Hunger Action Month.

“It’s about reaching out to everyone we know and then some,” said Aranibar, an East County resident. “A September to Remember (is the theme). I’m going to ask you to remember our families who need help.”

Several organizations, including Mosaic, the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch, Lakewood Ranch Kiwanis Club, Keeton’s Office & Art Supplies, the city of Palmetto and others, have stepped up and made donations since learning of the Food Bank’s need. But community leaders are asking for more organizations to participate in the challenge.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].

Items to collect
• Cash (checks payable to Food Bank of Manatee)
• Baby food
• Diapers
• Rice/beans
• Canned goods
• 100% fruit juice
• Healthy cereals

The Challenge
Local officials are asking businesses, schools, churches and other organizations to collect 1,000 pounds of food or raise $1,000 for the Food Bank during the month of September.

Anyone interested in obtaining a Food Bank food collection barrel can email [email protected]. Food and Fund Drive Kit information also can be found online at foodbankofmanatee.org.