Critical need exists in this area for donations to the FoodBank
The 2007 holiday hunger food drive is the current hunger relief effort by the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties being conducted now through Nov. 12. The organization is hoping to promote the food drive through most area schools, soliciting food donations and monetary contributions.

The FoodBank wants to continue its mission to feed needy families in our community for the upcoming holidays.

This mission actually began back in 1984 with a few people who saw hunger in the community and were appalled by its existence. They saw people living under the boardwalks and living in the woods - with nowhere to turn for food.

Now, more than 20 years later, people are surprised to find that hunger still persists in our community. Here in the most affluent country in the world, more than 38.2 million people do not have access to enough food to meet their basic needs. About 3.6 million of these people are elderly, while 13.8 million are children.

In Monmouth and Ocean counties alone it is estimated that over 100,000 people are at risk of hunger at some time each month, including about 40,000 youngsters.

The Goddard School at 255 Route 70, Toms River, a privately owned pre-school for young children, is proud to be a continuing participant in the collection of nonperishable food items for the FoodBank.

Goddard School families and friends are encouraged to participate by bringing their donations to our location in Toms River, Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Other members of the community can participate by making their contributions now to the 2007 holiday hunger food drive.

The FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties can be reached by telephone at (732) 918-2600 or on the Internet at www.foodbankmoc.org.

Because the FoodBank is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, all contributions are tax-deductible. And for every dollar they raise, 90 cents goes directly to support the programs to help the needy.

Dana Chibbaro The Goddard School

Toms River