Crucial task to remember (05/09/08)

Write yourself a note so you won't forget.

On Saturday morning, put some non-perishable food items in a bag and leave it by your mailbox.

Do it before 9:30 a.m. because U.S. Postal Service employees from the Portland post office and local volunteers will be gathering up the bags that morning to take them to the Helping Hand Food Bank.

And if you have time, contact the post office and see if they need your help as a volunteer.

The food pantry, operated by Community and Family Services in Portland but serving the entire Jay County area, is one of those institutions that serves as a barometer for the local economy.

When things are tough, the pantry sees more people than ever. When money is tight, that's when the pantry is needed most.

It's also a pretty good barometer of the strength and character of the local community.

When it has a need, the community comes through to fill its shelves. Those who can afford to share with others do so willingly and cheerfully.

The post office drive almost fell through the cracks this year, and no advance mass mailing went out to alert folks it was coming up.

That makes your support even more important on Saturday. This one drive helps keep the pantry's shelves stocked through the summer months. If it falls short, those shelves could become empty.

So write yourself a note and put that bag out for collection in the morning. - J.R.[[In-content Ad]]