With 1 in 7 people in the United States counting on food pantries for some of their nutrition, food drives can play a critical role in keeping shelves stocked for those in need.  However, despite good intentions, too many of us respond to our school, business or parish food drives by quickly scanning our kitchen for old canned goods to toss into the donation bin.  I'd like to suggest a different approach.  This new approach will assist United Samaritans more effectively, and help your children learn about the issue of hunger, acquire empathy for those who struggle with food insecurity, and think about how they can continue to make a difference.

• Gather good food. Go grocery shopping with your kids, and while you're there talk about the importance of good nutrition.  Explain the consequences of not getting enough of the right foods.
• Visit. Go for a brief visit to United Samaritans to see what they do.  Take a tour, ask staff and volunteers about their work, and ask how else you can help. This will make the food drive much more concrete for children.
• Write a letter. Many of us mistakenly believe that contacting our representatives makes little difference; but legislators care about what matters to voters.  Handwritten letters (and drawings by younger children) urging your elected official to visit their local food bank can be powerful.
• Give money. Donating money to anti-hunger organizations does two things. It enables them to buy nutritious foods and to buy the specific foods low-income families most want and need.  So consider designating some of your charitable giving money to United Samaritans, in addition to donating good food.

The Knights of Columbus have been providing charitable works since it was founded in 1882.  The knights in our parish have been providing this food drive for over 10 years and it’s one way we continue to help those in need.  Please help us make a difference to families within our community.