A Busy Week!

What a busy week it has been for the CFC. Even though it is only Thursday, life has been "hopping" for us. On Tuesday we had a Volunteer meeting. With an unexpected turnout of around 30 volunteers there was a sense of accomplishment for the Board. What a great chance to communicate with one another. Appreciation certificates were handed out to the civic, church and community groups that staff the CFC on a regular basis. The current bread situation as well as the celebration of new shelving was discussed. Questions about Second Harvest and USDA foods were explained and answered. What a great meeting!

On Wednesday the Daily Times sent a reporter to check up on what is happening at the "store". The focus for the story will be how our community youth are helping out. This month Brendan Wood provided us with additional strong and sturdy shelving, the Maryville High School National Honor Society will work on the third Saturday (2 shifts) as they do every month and then on Halloween (Oct. 31st) three students (Camille Crumpton, Michae Musick and Scott Mcamis) will supervise and enjoy their labor of love - "Trick or Cans". This is the 10th anniversary for "Trick or Cans" and the CFC is looking forward to another successful food drive. We are researching to find the total pounds of food collected over this period of time and will have that in an upcoming entry. Wow! What fabulous students we have in our county!

Today part of the board gathered to look over the new shelving and to think about how food will be stored, rotated for distribution and received in large quantities. While there, the photographer (or is that graphic artist?) for the Times came to quietly observe and take some photos. Shelves were stocked (88 families had been served on Wednesday and the shelves were low) and bags were prepared for Saturday"s clients. Second Harvest shoppers came and went to shop.... there will be another flurry of activity as they return, unload and shelve foods. USDA bags will be packed again and final preparations will be made for Saturday.

As always there is much to be done, but the volunteers are up to the challenge. It may take a little while to grow accustomed to the new arrangements but what a blessing to increase the storage space.

While there it was noted that canned tuna is getting low, soon we will be out of green beans and fruit is almost gone as well. We are beginning to hear about some tentative food drives (other than Trick or Cans) and hopefully the shelves will soon be more full. Have you thought about a food drive at your place of business or civic club? The CFC would love your help!