(Shenandoah) -- Food pantries across the region are getting much-needed support at a crucial time.
Representatives of Modern Woodmen of America donated approximately 5,400 meals to Shenandoah's Community Food Pantry Wednesday morning. Shenandoah's pantry is just one of several in KMAland receiving donations through the company's Knock Out Hunger campaign. Rod Bolton of Tabor is a financial representative with Modern Woodmen, a fraternal financial company based in Rock Island, Illinois assisting individuals, families and communities. Bolton tells KMA News volunteers assembled--consisting of macaroni and cheese packages--at an event in Harlan last weekend.
"Last Sunday, there was probably 50 to 60 people that got together," said Bolton. "We stood in a line at five different tables, and started putting these meals together, and boxed them up, with the final destination here in Shenandoah. Other meals will be going to Red Oak, Harlan, Denison and other communities. I think there was a total of 25,000 meals boxed up."
Bolton says each pantry receiving the meals appreciates the extra boost.
"There's a need everywhere," he said, "in every community. We're just very happy to provide these meals, and make it a little easier for parents and kids."
Donations from Linda Lloyd and Lloyd, Incorporated also contributed to the company's efforts. Shenandoah Food Pantry Director Jeannine Liljedahl says the meals come at a critical time, as the demand for food increases during the holidays.
"We saw a huge need that carried us through June, July and August," said Liljedahl. "September has let up a little bit, but now as we go into fall, and the cold months, and especially holiday time, we'll see a need again. So, we're looking for those donations. Those holiday months are usually the months when the biggest donations go through."
Liljedahl says donations of all sorts are welcome. Anyone interested in donating to the Shenandoah Food Pantry should contact Liljedahl at 712-215-2488 or leave a message on the food pantry's answering machine at 712-246-3190.
