Greene County’s Action Resource Center is requesting more food donations to help serve an increase number of families and individuals in the community.

Dianne Blackmer with the ARC says in August, they served 97 families which is over 200 individuals and last month, they served 86 families.  Because of the increased number of individuals and families utilizing the food pantry, Blackmer is in need of several food and hygiene items.

She states that any food items with the exception of homemade items that are not expired will be collected.  They will also take any shampoo, conditioner, Arm and Hammer deodorant, toothpaste and laundry detergent.  Blackmer points out that they usually get most of their items at the Food Bank of Iowa in Des Moines but because they are also running short of supplies, that means, their own food pantry is getting depleted.

Despite the shortening of supplies, Blackmer comments that the volunteers have provided more efficient services with the growing number of people who use the food pantry.

“We’ve become more efficient.  That’s why we pre-pack our bag and boxes so that we don’t have to spend so much time filling each order and it actually runs very smoothly.”

She adds that it’s discouraging when there’ so many people and not enough items to give them when they need them.

“We’re trying hard to provide a week’s worth of food for each family.  But, it’s becoming a challenge to be able to do that.”

To help provide more awareness and collection more donations, Monica’s Ministry is hosting the first-ever “Rock the ARC” talent show this Sunday at History Boy Theatre.  It is a free-will donation with all proceeds to benefit the ARC.

Other donations or those interested in helping as a volunteer can contact Blackmer at 515-370-0650.