Richmond food bank facing shortages

Jamie Trice

Contributing Writer

The Central Virginia food bank in Richmond is facing food shortages. Because of the weak economy, the need for food is urgent this holiday season.

The third annual Feed Richmond food drive was held Nov. 1, through Saturday, Nov. 20. Cox Media Group of Richmond has partnered with the Central Virginia Food Bank, Kroger stores, SunTrust Mortgage and Buick-GMC to collect canned foods.

The food bank is collecting donations not only for this holiday season but year around. Many children, adults and homeless shelters are in need of food for this season.

“Our mission is no one should go hungry,” Fay Lohr, president/CEO of the food bank, said. “But in this present economy, many people are going hungry.”

More than 102,000 pounds of food were raised in 2008 for the Feed Richmond food drive. Last year, the program raised more than 135,000 pounds of food according to Kristin VanStory, director of communications. The Food Distribution Center delivers food to needy people across the region. Distribution centers solicit donated food from manufactures, retailers and the public. The Food Distribution Center also purchases food at efficient costs to ensure a supply of the healthiest and most needed items.

“The Community Kitchen serves four and six thousand meals a day, which are cooked from scratch,” Lohr said. “And have to be healthy and nutritious that go to homebound people and majority go to children.”

The food bank needs: canned chicken, ham, tuna and salmon, peanut butter, canned vegetables, canned fruits, spaghetti sauce, hot and cold cereals, and pasta and rice. Feed Richmond food drive will be at four area Kroger stores collecting food and funds.

If you’re hungry and need food, call 804-521-2500.