Local groups that provide food for Powell residents got a big boost in early November from Food City’s Race Against Hunger. Presentations were made at the Powell Food City by store manager Donny Rector and human resources manager Rachel Walker.
Companywide, Food City customers donated $363,000 during the 2016 event.
“Millions of Americans need food assistance each year. The Food City Race Against Hunger campaign is one way we can help those in need right here in our own area,” says Kevin Stafford, Food City vice president of marketing. The holiday promotion is co-sponsored by Kellogg’s.
More than $3,000 was disbursed in Powell:
Temple Baptist Church was represented by Roger Hilliard, assistant to the pastor. He said the church extends Sunday bus service to downtown Knoxville, Clinton and Oak Ridge. It buys food at Food City for its home missions.
Heiskell Community Organization and the Community Center in Powell were represented by founder Janice White. Volunteers serve a hearty lunch to seniors each third Thursday at the Community Center. It is open to all.
Marcia Fisher of Powell Presbyterian Church collected a donation for the church’s Wednesday night supper – open to all for a nominal fee. Fisher said 40-50 people eat there on a typical Wednesday.
Joyce Smith represented Glenwood Baptist Church, and Ginny Combs was there from St. James Episcopal Church.
Food City customers had an opportunity to contribute $1, $3 or $5 on each grocery bill during November (until Nov. 28). That money will be divided among community food providers. The money raised locally stays in the community, Rector said.