PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — The Midwest Food Bank is partnering with the Salvation Army and PNC Bank to feed families in need this holiday season.
“It’s an opportunity for families who may struggle during the holiday season to make sure that they have a great holiday meal,” said Major Heath Sells, Central Illinois area commander for the Salvation Army. “This year, we plan to give 4,000 food baskets and vouchers out to families that will make sure that they have the food and the resources that they need.”
These boxes are only made possible by the generous donations from the community and businesses helping out.
“This Christmas fund is really a collaborative partnership between PNC, the Salvation Army, the Midwest Food Bank, and actually so many others in the community just to be able to provide for those less fortunate who are struggling to pay their bills, put food on the table,” said Brian Ray, regional president for PNC Bank.
Boxes are filled with non-perishable foods for families to make the holidays special, with a meal that is homemade and special. Gift cards and children’s activities will also be included in the boxes.
“This is great because it’s going to feed their family. It’s going to give them that warm, fuzzy feeling of the holidays with that type of food that you think of when you think about Christmas, Thanksgiving, this time of year,” said Christa Staley, executive director for Midwest Food Bank Peoria.
But they are not able to do this alone. With over 4,000 boxes to pack and deliver, as well as getting the food to fill those boxes, it’s all hands on deck.
“Always go to the Salvation Army Peoria website so that you can donate to the Christmas fund. I’m sure that they’ll be seeking volunteers to hand out the boxes,” she said. “Then also Midwest Food Bank is doing the packaging with primarily volunteers. You can definitely reach out to us to get more information if you’d like to know more.”
WMBD TV can be reached at News@WJBC.com.
