Without donated food, supplies and services, the Gathering’s expenses would double. But that’s not the only reason donations in-kind are important. They also reflect the commitment and creativity of the community at large to this work. DONATED FOOD - 163,313 Pounds valued at $167,098
92,638 pounds of perishable and nonperishable foods from government and other sources were donated through Hunger Task Force. An additional 54,825 pounds came from area restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops and bakeries. 2,225 pounds of fresh produce was donated for the Produce Preservation Project, and 13,625 pounds came in the form of take home bag “dinners” for our Saturday Lunch guests. These numbers do NOT include the wonderful donations of coffee, milk and home-made baked goods provided by serving groups on a weekly basis.
South Side Saturday Lunch Cooks
DONATED SUPPLIES & SERVICES - 110 Distributions
Toiletry items were distributed monthly to St. James’ Saturday Lunch guests by Sundries from the Avenue. An additional 3 toiletry distributions were provided at our Dinner site. Sixteen groups distributed bag lunches/sandwiches at 83 of our meals. Thirteen additional distributions of treat bags, warm weather clothing, blankets and holiday decorations in addition to equipment and in-kind services were provided by scout and school groups, churches, individuals and companies.
Oranges Donated for Christmas 2012 Goody Bags