Operation Feed still in need of donations

A can of baked beans or a jar of peanut butter might not top the list of most exciting culinary choices, but these items do top the "most needed" list for this year's Operation Feed 2006 food drive campaign.

As the 25th annual community-wide campaign to stock shelves at pantries, soup kitchens and emergency shelters winds down Friday, donations and volunteers remain in high demand. The campaign, co-sponsored by Mid-Ohio FoodBank and United Way of Central Ohio, kicked off May 8 in administrative units and departments at Ohio State.

Although a specific goal is not set, Operation Feed tries each year to collect more food than in previous years, said Michele Bondurant, program manager for human resources. Last year the campaign collected almost 15,000 pounds of food and $60,000 - which translated into 130,000 meals spread through the 226 distribution locations in Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Madison, Pickaway and Union counties.

According to the Mid-Ohio FoodBank, 39 percent of the people served are children, and 11 percent are people aged 60 or older.

"Many of the people who rely on food banks never thought they would ever need assistance to feed themselves or their families," said Moni Wood, office associate in the history of art department.

"The university has always participated in events that support the underprivileged. It's our departmental goal to fill 10 boxes this year with items that would appeal to people of all ages," said Marsha Myers, administrative manager in continuing education.

Cash donations work best, Bondurant said. "The food bank can broker a better deal than people can (paying retail)."

In addition to those items already mentioned, other critically needed foods include beef or chicken stew, canned fruit, canned meats - including tuna - canned vegetables, macaroni and cheese, oatmeal and pasta.

Operation Feed cannot accept home-canned or home-packaged foods, outdated items, bulk packages, items weighing more than five pounds or items in glass containers.

"The next time you are at the store buying your weekly groceries, buy an extra can or two for the drive," Wood said. "It's a minimal cost to you, but makes a significant difference to someone in need."

"Typically we ask students to help with the pickup (of donated items) around campus."

Anyone wishing to assist with picking up the boxes of donations for the project should contact Michele Bondurant at 292-4341.