Guess The Weight!

Helping July’s Hungry: How Food Donations Make a Difference

The numbers for July are in!

With generous donations, we have distributed 853 lbs of food!

This includes 257 loaves of bread, 300 lbs of produce, and 256 bottles of water.

August, however, has hit our community hard just in the first four days. With your help we've given away 225 bottles of water, 50 lbs of produce, 62 loaves of bread, 85 sandwiches, 10 cases of Ramen, and so on.

The summer season is in full swing, and with it comes the need to stay fed and hydrated. Unfortunately, food insecurity is a persistent problem for many households in the United States, even during the months when the weather is warm and bright. The month of July, in particular, sees an increase in demand for food donations and distributions, as schools are out of session and families struggle to make ends meet. But there is hope. With the help of generous individuals and organizations, we can make a meaningful difference for those in need.

1. The scope of the problem:

When it comes to food insecurity, numbers tell an alarming story. According to Feeding America, the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States, more than 40 million people, including 12 million children and 7 million seniors, struggle with hunger. That means 1 in 8 Americans may not know where their next meal is coming from. In July, these numbers may rise, as low-income families face the added burden of providing more meals for their children due to the summer break. Food donations and distributions can help alleviate some of that stress and ensure everyone can access nourishing meals.

2. Where to donate food:

If you want to donate food, you can put items directly in the boxes or drop them off at The Goat Milk Soap Store (204 S Main St, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.)

Non-perishable food donations are generally the best choice, as they have a longer shelf life and can be stored easily. Some items to donate include canned fruits and vegetables, pasta and rice, cereal, peanut butter, and canned meats or fish.

3. Monetary donations:

If you’d like to make a monetary donation instead of donating food items, we accept cash, check, Venmo, and Paypal. By giving money, you help us purchase food products at a reduced cost, allowing them to stretch donations further and buy the most needed items.

4. Volunteering opportunities:

Another way to support food donations and distribution efforts is by volunteering your time and skills to have a food drive in your neighborhood, schools, or organizations. We have support materials if needed.

5. Spreading awareness:

Finally, don’t underestimate the impact of spreading awareness about food insecurity and the need for food donations and distribution. Share our social media posts promoting food donation drives or volunteer opportunities. Talk to friends, family, and coworkers about how they can help, and encourage them to get involved. Every person can make a difference, no matter how small.

Food donations and distributions are a critical lifeline for many people struggling with food insecurity, and the demand for assistance is high. Whether you choose to donate food items, make a monetary contribution, volunteer your time, or raise awareness, know that your efforts can help transform someone’s life for the better. Together, we can ensure that no one goes hungry.