Salvation Army low on food

Salvation Army says many contributing factors to food donation shortage

S. RYAN QUIGLEY
JOURNAL PIONEER

The number of donations coming into the soup kitchens has gone down in recent months, but the demand has gone up, says Salvation Army’s community and family services co-ordinator.
Though this is a slow time of year for food bank donations, Marj Montgomery wasn’t sure if it was the economy being down, the cost of gas or oil or the recent escalating food price.
Economists have said by the end of 2011 we will be paying five to seven per cent more for food due to bad crops, high oil prices and the economy’s current state.
Though supply has been low, Montgomery said she is confident that they will be able to work through it.
“I’m confident that as in previous times, when the food bank does get low, the public does come to our assistance.”
Though they have been low, they haven’t turned away anyone yet looking for some donations, said Montgomery.
“If we maybe have to down a little bit that we put in our food boxes, we will, but we do not turn anybody away.”
The shortages have not affected the soup kitchen as it is largely donations from major commercial contributors, said Montgomery.
“Our soup kitchen is not affected, at the present time, with what we have.”
Montgomery said next time anyone who wants to help is at the grocery store should remember to pick up something to donate.
“Just remember that when they’re at the soup kitchen, when they’re at the grocery store that there is people in great need.”
Though times are rough, Montgomery said the Salvation Army is very greatful for the communities of Prince County and all their help.
“I’m optimistic that things will get better for us, because right now we’re pretty low. We are low on food.”