Help if you need it

Local charities seek to feed those who are hungry

Local food banks, community organizations and churches are gearing up to feed people in need. Two exisiting programs, Salvation Army and IMACA, are distributing on a weekly basis, but could use more food donations. Mono County Paramedics plans to host a food drive over President’s weekend to help supplement the food banks.

“My sense is that the folks who are normally part of the local social services system already know where these places are,” said Kathy Cage, who attends St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. “Because of the lack of resort business since Christmas, we have a whole new, different population of seasonal folks who’ve never needed anything before and might not know where to go or who to ask. They might not even know we have food banks in town.”

In addition to the food banks, a collaboration of local churches are planning community dinners at Mammoth Lakes High School, sponsored by the Booster Club.

“Many long term locals remember community dinners during drought years, which really helped people who were struggling financially,” said Cage, who is also the volunteer coordinator for the dinners. “I have been trying to gauge the desperation level to see when and if Mammoth needs this again.”

“The concept would to provide a hot dinner one night a week open to the public for whoever feels like they could use it to help them get by.” MHS students have offered to help set up, serve, and clean. Other volunteers would come from the local churches such as Mammoth Christian Fellowship, Grace Community Church, Mammoth Lakes Lutheran Church and the Lighthouse Church.

“If we drop back into a bad drought pattern and resort visitation drops way off again, we will start the Monday night meals,” said Cage. “My fear is that if too many give up and leave town, when the snow really hits, our service industries might really be hurting for staff.”

The tentative first night for the community dinner is February 24. If anyone would like to donate resources or time call Kathy at 760.934.4688.

The Mono County Paramedics food drive will take place at Von’s, Saturday February 15 from 12-5 p.m.

Local food bank distribution:

Salvation Army Emergency Food Bank: Mondays & Wednesdays from  2-4 p.m. 220 Sierra Manor Rd

IMACA’s  food pantry: is open Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon at 625 Old Mammoth Rd.

IMACA accepts food donations weekdays from 8-5 at their offices.