• October 8 Food Drive gears up for increased demand.

On October 8, The Fighting for Hunger Games food drive will help prepare for increased numbers and needs of local families. The Afton Food Pantry expects to see a significant rise in the number of households seeking assistance, with winter typically doubling the demand for their services.

Currently, the Afton Food Pantry serves 27 households each week and 130 each month, with the expected totals to increase to at least 40 as the winter season approaches. Sierra Mitchell, Afton Food Pantry President, noted that demand often increases during election years as families prepare for potential uncertainties.

The Fighting for Hunger Games food drive is the largest one each year with over 2,000 volunteer hours, making up for 60 percent of the year’s total.

“This Food Drive strategically comes at this time of the year,” said Mitchell. The food drive coincides with the case lot sale held at Broulims locations, where donation boxes can be found. With the increase in patrons throughout the holidays, the needed donation amounts are much higher.

Inspired by the popular Hunger Games series, the food drive features four themed “Districts” representing different areas:

District 1: Smoot

District 2: Osmond/Fairview

District 3: Afton

District 4: Grover/Auburn

Mitchell encourages donations of items of things that community members already use in their homes. If you eat it yourself, the patrons will also. She also shared the need for items not thought of often, including spices, cooking oil, and baking supplies such as flour and salt. Each holiday season the pantry will put together baking kits for families to use.

To keep the competition fun and fair, expired items result in point deductions for the respective “District,” so donors are encouraged to check expiration dates before contributing. A list of requested items can be found on page 9A.

If you receive a flier on your door, you can leave on a porch light and have items picked up directly, between 7 and 9 p.m.,  or donate at your community drop-off location. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Afton Food Pantry at 307-887-FOOD (3663).