MONROE, MI (Toledo News Now) - The shelves of the Monroe County Salvation Army food pantry are close to empty. Leaders say this time of year donations stop but the handouts continue.
"It comes around about this time of year where our shelves start getting bare. We've used up a lot of the donations that have come at Christmas time and we're seeing an increased need in our community especially with the economy the way it is. So right now is a prime time where we're in need of food donations," said Tammy Whitney, a captain with the Salvation Army of Monroe, MI.
The Monroe County Salvation Army helps over 30 thousand families every year giving baskets which contain ingredients to make basic meals like spaghetti, peanut butter, bread and tuna. The food pantry is in need of all those items to continue to help.
"It's pretty tough, especially when you have people come in and tell you, 'I'm about to get kicked out and I have to decide between rent and food or my utilities are going to be shut off and I have children.' and it's heartbreaking," said Captain Whitney.
The Salvation Army is accepting food and money donations as well as hygiene products, especially diapers.
Donations can be dropped off at the Salvation Army located at 815 east First Street in Monroe, Michigan.
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