DISASTER RELIEF

If you'd like to help with current disaster relief efforts, visit the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, World Vision, or Compassion International web sites.

DESPERATE TIMES – DESPERATE NEED
The crunch brought on by rising gasoline prices, rising food prices and higher unemployment has meant that the safety net provided by our local Salvation Army has shrunk.  Food donations and funding are down to a point that the food supply can not keep up with the demand and that help with housing is not available.   In fact, the operating budget for the Hanford site is presently at a $50,000 deficit and is expected to be worse by the end of the year.

First Presbyterian Church Deacons challenge you to take part in a long-term food drive.  On the first Sunday of each month, when we celebrate communion together, you are encouraged to bring a can or carton of food, with these donations to go to the local Salvation Army pantry.

In August, 222 boxes of food were distributed – and they only go to families that have not received a box in the previous 60 days.  One faithful donor brings bulk sacks of rice and pinto beans, which volunteers re-package for distribution when they come in four days each week to fill food boxes.  But one donor is not enough. The Salvation Army can purchase items from a food bank, but they are at the mercy of what that group’s prices are as well as availability of cash donations.
     The following non-perishable items are especially needed:
            Canned vegetables (green beans, corn, carrots, mixed vegetables)
            Canned fruit
            Peanut butter
            Pasta (spaghetti, macaroni & cheese, etc.)
            Canned pasta sauce (not in glass jars)
            Oatmeal & other cereals
            Refried beans, pork & beans
            Soups
            Crackers
            Bulk rice & bulk pinto beans

Please help, first by making a note on your calendar and then bringing food items to church the first Sunday of EVERY month (though items can be brought at any time and placed in the collection container). Remember, Jesus called for us to serve when he said in John 21:17, “Feed my sheep.”