Portage Salvation Army asking for donations to help get "back on track" 

The Portage Salvation Army is hoping the community can once again come through and help them feed families in need.

Major Brenda Hammond from the Salvation Army says that the food bank now serves more low-income families than ever.

"Right now, we are out of the basics. Ironically, we have more than we need of some foods, and we're sharing those foods with 15 other not-for-profits right here in Portage, but we're out of the basics like peanut butter, pasta, Kraft Dinner, canned fruit, soups and stews."

Hammond notes that the shortage of these basics has come with an uptick of people needing the foodbank in the last 15 months.

"It is connected to COVID and people having less disposable income. So, they're struggling to put food on the table."

Hammond outlines that Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are the best days to drop off food as that's when they have staff and volunteers on shift to process the donations.

"Portage really supports their food bank, and I know that if we do this shout-out, our cupboards will fill, and we'll be back on track."

Hammond shares that this is actually the first time the food bank has asked for donations in a couple of years. 

Although they are feeding the most families they ever have, Hammond says that if you struggle to put food on the table, the food bank is here for you.

"We want to help," continues Hammond. "The food bank is open Wednesday morning from 9 to 11, and to register, you need to bring two pieces of ID, and some other sent with the same name and proof of income. Come, and we'll get you registered. And then when you are struggling, you'll be able to come and get food."

The Salvation Army Foodbank is located at 220 Duke Avenue in Portage.