SPOKANE, Wash. — The Salvation Army Spokane says it is facing a severe food shortage and is asking for community donations.
The Salvation Army says the emergency comes as the need for food continues to climb leading into Christmas. In November alone, The Salvation Army reports that its food bank helped 708 more households than in October, totaling at aiding 6,321 families.
"I have never seen the warehouse as empty as it is right now. We've been notified by partners due to the increase in food costs, they simply will not be able to provide the stock of shelf-stable food all the food banks are accustomed to," said Elaine Mansoor, director of social services, at the Salvation Army Spokane. "The basics that help families get by simply are not on the shelf right now. The weather is cold, and food prices are high. The Salvation Army's food bank is very busy, but the food supply is extremely limited."
Items needed include new and unopened shelf-stable food like peanut butter, jelly, canned tuna, canned chicken, canned meals, canned vegetables, canned fruit, non-perishable pasteurized milk, cereal, oatmeal, spaghetti, pasta sauce and snacks.
The Salvation Army is asking the public to coordinate food drives or donate food individually to The Salvation Army between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays.
Financial gifts can also be donated in person or online at www.makingspokanebetter.org to help purchase the needed items.
For more information or for help setting up a local food drive, people can call Mansoor at (509)325-6821, ext. 2212.
