AARP and Ruritan Plan Community Food Drive

As more families struggle with economic difficulties, Virginia’s food banks need help feeding hungry people. You can help right here in your own community by participating in the AARP/Ruritan Community Food Drive on October 24.



“AARP is calling upon our one million members in Virginia to help replenish emergency food banks across the commonwealth,” said AARP Virginia State Director Bill Kallio. “Virginia food banks provide valuable assistance to people in need right in your community.”



Virginia food banks and their 2,800 partner agencies are experiencing daily increases in demand for assistance due to rising unemployment, higher food prices and a slow economy. Requests for help have risen nearly 30 percent in the last year and a half.



You can make a difference in your community on October 24 by filling a bag with non-perishable food that your local food bank needs most. Those items include: peanut butter, chunky soups, canned meats, canned tuna, canned vegetables, crackers, hot and cold cereal, pasta, rice and canned fruit. No glass containers, please.



Over 70 Ruritan Clubs will collect food at their sites on October 24. See a list of participating clubs, drop off locations and times.



“One person really can make a difference,” Kallio said.