FLINT (WJRT) -
(11/22/11) - The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan expects to distribute 20 million pounds of food this year to local charities and organizations. But, some donations may not be the healthiest.
"Hunger is broad-based and we need every amount of food we can get," said Sarah Hierman of The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. "Our goal is to provide as much of a variety as we possibly can, and keeping in mind obviously that nutrition is a factor. We do accept those fresh items."
Generous Mid-Michigan residents are donating their time and money to help those less fortunate this holiday season. And while the need is great, so is the awareness to provide food choices that are healthy.
Nearly three million pounds of fresh produce has already been distributed, which is up from two million pounds five years ago.
But some highly processed and packaged items may contain high amounts of salt or sugar. While all donations are graciously accepted, the healthier the food item, the better.
"Anything that you particularly would serve to your family, keep that in mind as you're making a donation this holiday season," Hierman said.
Flint's North End Soup Kitchen is one of three shelters run by Catholic Charities. Their focus is on fresh cooking.
"We actually make everything from scratch. We have a balanced meal. We ask for bags of beans instead of cans of beans. We don't ask for weird stuff like Spaghetti O's," said Jon Manse from Catholic Charities.
Some charities have found that it's OK to ask for specific donations from the groups that organize food drives.
Manse recognized a lot of donations were going to waste because they weren't being used, so he started to ask for specific donations to accommodate what was being prepared at the soup kitchens.
"I found that the response was overwhelming. We want to do what you want. We want to give you the type of products that you need, that you cook with everyday."
Community support is critical to help feed the hungry all year long. Getting more specific with donations may mean providing a meal that not only tastes good but is both healthy and nutritious.
