Second Harvest Food Bank to Host Holiday Food Distribution for Families
Dec 19, 2023 08:45AM ● By Jessica Waldrop
Lake Charles, LA - Second Harvest Food Bank is hosting a “Food from the Heart” Holiday Food Distribution event on December 19th, 2023 from 11 am to 1 pm at McNeese State University Football Stadium. The distribution event is expected to help 600 families get essential holiday food items and other staples they need to make a hearty meal. The goal of this event is to help parish residents who are still struggling in the aftermath of natural disasters and rising food prices.
“At Second Harvest, we understand the challenges that many families face during the holiday season, especially in the wake of economic instability and the rising cost of food, housing, and other basic needs,” says Paul Scelfo, Regional Director for Second Harvest Food Bank. “We hope that our ‘Food from the Heart’ Holiday Food Distribution event will provide much-needed assistance to many families who are bracing for another difficult holiday season.”
Higher prices at the grocery store and economic pressures have left many families struggling to put food on the table, particularly at a time when the prices of food, housing, and various basic needs have skyrocketed. However, Second Harvest’s long-term efforts aim to ensure that families throughout Southwest Louisiana have access to food assistance year-round.
The holiday food distribution is a drive-through event on a first-come, first-served basis that will help about 600 families striving to maintain stability to put food on the table. Food items to be given away include turkey, seasonal produce, and traditional holiday staples such as stuffing and cranberry sauce.
Staff and volunteers of Second Harvest will distribute food items as vehicles “drive-through" at McNeese State University Football Stadium located at 700 East McNeese Street. To ensure a seamless distribution experience, McNeese Campus Police will be present to help direct traffic and distribute food to the attendees.
“Our staff and volunteers are committed to distributing food to families in need every day, especially during the holiday season, when the need is most pressing,” says Scelfo. “We are grateful for our partner, McNeese, and volunteers who dedicate their time to make our food distributions possible. They understand the gift of time and the importance of extra resources, which make a significant difference in the lives of those who are struggling to get by.”
Through its network of community partners, disaster response agencies, and direct food distributions, Second Harvest has provided more than 35 million pounds of food across Southwest Louisiana.
Interested individuals can get involved with Second Harvest’s efforts by donating food items, monetary gifts, and by volunteering their time. Every $1 donated helps to provide four meals to someone in need. Visit no-hunger.org to make a difference in the lives of families throughout Southwest Louisiana.
