Southampton County Office Holds Collection for Local Food Bank

By: John Rudy

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) Southampton County Office in Virginia recently collected peanut butter to bolster the pantry of the Franklin Cooperative Ministries local food bank. FSA Program Technician Donna Rountree heard that the Peanut Designated Marketing Association was holding a similar collection and thought her office could contribute to the effort. FSA staff placed a collection box in the office and promoted the drive with newsletter articles and promotional emails. Their efforts paid off – the office collected 70 jars of peanut butter along with cash donations for the food bank.

Jennifer Ferguson, Director of Franklin Cooperative Ministries, told the local FSA staff that many families and individuals rely on the food bank when they are in need of financial and emergency assistance. In 2008, the organization helped 1,131 families. Their assistance includes financial aid for rent, medical expenses, utilities and flood recovery. The group also provides clothing and food to those in need. Last year, around 500 families were assisted with emergency food bags. Each of those bags contained a week’s supply of food, including peanut butter, jelly, crackers, spaghetti, tomato sauce, vegetables, juices and canned meats. This year, however, the food bank is already on track to outpace last year; over 200 families had been assisted with bags as of last month. The food bank is staffed by one paid employee and relies greatly on volunteers to help with the operation.

The efforts of the Johnson County FSA staff helped this local food bank deliver a much needed service to the community. Kudos to these FSA employees who went the extra mile in supporting members of their community who are in need.

Veronica Ferguson, Director of Franklin Cooperative Ministries, unpacks peanut butter collected by the Virginia Southampton County FSA.

Rebecca Drake, a local farmer, brings her donation to the office.