This group meets twice a month, the 1st Tuesday from 1:30 to 2:30 PM to distribute food to the truly needy and the last Tuesday of the month at 1:30 PM is their Board and Organization meeting.
The Food Bank was started here prior to 1990 serving just a few items to a few needy families. Current President of PSFB, Sharon Balentine, reports that the number of familes they serve per month has risen by about 50% this year, from 45 families last year to nearly 65 today. That means they are providing for about 180 people in the Pine Strawberry area.
Nearly all of their supplies are donated within our town, the only outside help they get is some food occasionally from \the United Food Bank in Mesa. Cash and food contributions are always needed and always appreciated. This past year was the best year ever for contributions in spite of the failing economy. That just proves that the people of our town are very warm-hearted and generous. And the volunteers who help out at PSFB are the warmest and most gracious of the lot. I was there today while they were distributing and there was never any strife or contention. They were all smiling and pleasant, very busy dealing with their clients, courteous and kind. The paid employees of our 'Big Box Stores' could learn a lesson.
All recipients of the food must apply each year, verify their family size and income to qualify. They receive a large amount of food and household supplies 14 times per year; on the 1st Tuesday each month and also for Christmas and Thanksgiving. There is no fee for them to receive as long as they qualify. The generosity of individuals and organizations in Pine and Strawberry make all this possible.
Other board members are Barbara Davis; Vice President, Jean Bean; Treasurer, Dorothy Romy; Secretary, Kathleen Johnson; Correspondent, and Marti Heinert; Shopper/procurer. It takes about 20 people to handle the distribution, including some able bodied men because of the weight and bulk of the supplies.
If you are interested in assisting or donating to this fine volunteer group, Call Marti at 476-6469 for the exact time and location of their next meeting on Jan 27th.
