Donate 'Groceries for Good' Today at Stores

People can donate food to help families in need at the 25th annual "Groceries for Good" campaign on Saturday.

"I think it's a great way to recognize the blessings that we have individually, and a great way to start out the holiday season of giving," event coordinator Lisa O'Rourke said. "It puts everything into perspective as we go into the holiday season."

From 9 am to 5 pm, participating grocery stores in McCracken and Massac counties will accept donations. They are the three Kroger stores in Paducah, Banks Market in Lone Oak, Cash Saver on Jackson Street, Forthman Foods IGA in Kevil, Food Giant in Reidland, Big John and Save-A-Lot in Metropolis, and Barney's Market in Brookport.

Donations will be taken to Paducah Tilghman High School where volunteers will sort the items. Service agencies will collect donated goods for delivery to families during the holidays.

Agencies participating are The Salvation Army, Family Service Society, Hope Unlimited Family Care Center, Martha's Vineyard, Merryman House, Paducah Cooperative Ministry, Paducah Day Nursery, River City Mission and St. Vincent de Paul.

The last event raised more than $46,000 and saw nearly 300 volunteers. 

O'Rourke said more volunteers are still needed Saturday, Nov. 18. So far, volunteers include local Boy and Girl Scout troops, youth groups, community members, and students from Paducah Tilghman, McCracken County and St. Mary high schools.

In addition to canned goods, donations accepted include dry food items, baby items, hygiene products, cleaning supplies and paper products.

The event is sponsored by The Paducah Sun and The Metropolis Planet, and all proceeds remain local.

For more information on volunteering or cash donations, contact The Paducah Sun at 270-575-8801.