NOVEMBER 12, 2009

Secretary Land: Offices still accepting donations

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today reminded Michigan residents that they still can donate nonperishable food items at local Secretary of State branch offices to benefit needy families.

Land spoke today at a luncheon that honored Michigan Harvest Gathering participants and recognized state of Michigan employees for 10 years of donations as well as others who have worked to reduce hunger. The event also was attended by Don Koivisto, Department of Agriculture director and state appeals Judge Bill Schuette, a founder of Michigan Harvest Gathering, among other dignitaries.

"Secretary of State offices are ready to accept your food donations," Land said. "Food banks do an incredible job of helping feed Michigan's less fortunate, and the need this year is stronger than ever. Your generosity is needed now like never before in recent years."

Donated items can be dropped off at any Secretary of State branch through Friday, Dec. 11.

The campaign is coordinated by the Food Bank Council of Michigan, which supplies the state's regional food banks through donations of food and money. The regional food banks serve food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters in every Michigan county.

People are asked to donate food items such as canned meats, dry beans, soups, beef stew, pasta products, peanut butter and tuna. Envelopes are available for mailing cash donations, which are used to cover the cost of collecting and distributing the food. Donations may also be made online to Harvest Gathering's "Fill Michigan's Fridge" food drive at www.feedmichigan.org.

In 2008, Michigan Harvest Gathering collected more than 242,000 pounds of food and $679,000. The 2009 goal is 300,000 pounds of food and $650,000.

Related Links
> www.feedmichigan.org
> Michigan.gov/sos
> Branch Office Locator