A Local Church Is Driving Food Donations To Texas

FALLS CHURCH, VA—If you drive past the intersection of Spring and Park Streets in Falls Church, a moving truck is parked in the lawn near St. James Catholic Church. When you take a closer look, the truck has a sign reading "‘Hurricane Harvey Food Drive."

Starting on Sept. 2, the church started collecting food donations from anyone that stops by. In a few days, a church volunteer will drive the donations to Beaumont, Texas on Monday, Sept. 11.

The church's pastor, Fr. Patrick Posey learned about the Southeast Texas Food Bank's need from a friend that runs it. “He told me after Hurricane Harvey that the food bank was in dire need of food,” said Posey.

The church is collecting donations through Sunday, Sept. 10, when it holds its annual picnic. Posey welcomes community members to attend, encouraging them to bring one can of food to donate. Donations can also be dropped off anytime between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. at the truck.

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Patch went to check out how the fundraiser was doing Thursday evening, and the sight was no less than impressive. The truck is packed with boxes of donations, and people have left dozens of shopping bags there.

“Whether the crisis is near or far, at home or half way across the world, our community bands together. I am grateful to everyone in our parish and the greater Falls Church community," said Posey.

The Southeast Texas Food Bank confirmed with the church there are certain items in particular they desperately need. These include:

• Snack items like granola bars, peanut butter crackers and protein bars
• ready-to-eat items like applesauce and fruit cups
• pantry items like peanut butter, jelly, tuna, chili and soup
• Bottled water
• Personal hygiene items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant
• Cleaning supplies like bleach, non-bleach and paper towels

The church is emphasizing collections of food items, since many other groups are collecting water and clothing. See a full list of the donations needed here.

Images via Patch staff