The entire community of Chatham-Kent is being asked to help stock the empty shelves of local food banks during what is hoped to be the largest food drive ever held in the area.
A group of community leaders and local businesses owners got together to launch what's being called "The May 16th Miracle" in collaboration with the United Way of Chatham-Kent to help feed those in need during the COVID-19 emergency.
The project is now underway and organizers are asking every resident to put a non-perishable food item on their doorstep at noon on May 16th and all donations will be given to food banks and organizations across Chatham-Kent. Drop-off locations will be available for those living in rural areas.
Event organizers said the COVID-19 crisis has created a shortage of volunteers and donations, leaving some people and some food banks in a vulnerable position.
“Food banks across Chatham-Kent are running very low, if not empty in some cases. Demand has been high, which in normal circumstances, we can handle, however with this pandemic the food banks never had a chance to prepare for the increased pressure on their resources," said Reverend Tim Joyce of Blenheim's Word of Life Church. "There is great need now to bring these food banks back up to normal and above normal food levels. Food banks, soup kitchens are the last hope for many of our most vulnerable citizens.”
The goal on May 16 is to have all residents who are able, donate food items to stock the shelves of local food banks and organizations.
"If it can be pulled off, it will truly be a miracle for those in need and for the community as a whole," added Patricia Peters of the United Way of Chatham-Kent.
Wes Thompson, one of the driving forces behind the initiative, believes this is a great way for us all to help in a big way.
“I know that people in Chatham-Kent want to help, and this is a small gesture that will make a big difference,” he said.
More information on the May 16th Miracle can be found here.