Consider becoming a Hunger Helper

September is Hunger Action Month across our country. On behalf of the Linn Community Food Bank, I urge all Gazette readers to consider becoming a “Hunger Helper.” The need is great, even in our community. Last month the Linn Community Food Bank served 1,147 people and distributed 14,295 pounds of food with a retail dollar value of $15,302.

If you want to help us, there are many ways to do so. Contributions are always greatly appreciated, both monetary and donations of non-perishable food. Visit our website www.linncommunityfoodbank.org for contact information or call us at (319) 364-3543. Organize a food or fund drive. Call your senators and/or representatives and tell them to support local food banks. Plan a meal using only the daily average per person benefit provided by SNAP (formerly food stamps) - $4.50 per person.

There are, no doubt, other creative ways that readers can think of to help. Be a Hunger Helper and you'll be a hero to a family in need.

Holly Becker

Cedar Rapids