Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/231222
NEWS BRIEFS Volunteers package donated food into boxes for the Mayors Feed the Hungry collection at Ed Smith Stadium on Nov. 22. Photo by Norman Schimmel MAYORS FEED THE HUNGRY PROGRAM STILL NEEDS THE PUBLIC'S HELP The donations collected in Sarasota and Manatee counties before Thanksgiving for the Mayors Feed the Hungry Program — a record 50 tons — has already been distributed, the program has announced. "Donations are still desperately needed for the remainder of the holiday season," the release points out. "It's a great opportunity if you or your company is looking for an end-ofyear donation." "We are grateful to everyone who helped out. People on the Suncoast made a tremendous difference in the lives of thousands of their hungry neighbors," says Joel Swallow, the campaign chairman, in a news release. Food donations will be accepted at most city halls in the county, the release points out, or people may contribute cash at www.mayorsfeedthehungry.org. In spite of the record donations, "there's also a record need this year," the release adds. "The need isn't limited to Thanksgiving. We feed everyone who's hungry, and this year we have thousands of schoolchildren on the list," adds Swallow in the release. The Mayors Feed the Hungry Program is an all-volunteer group that began in 1987 in the City of Sarasota, the release notes. It has since grown to include the mayors of most cities and towns in Sarasota and Manatee counties, as well as the leaders of both county governments.