Ministry center gets help from ABB

By WAYNE QUESENBERRY/Staff

A major food drive is under way in Bland County. Sponsored by the employees of ABB Inc., it seeks to collect 3,000 lbs. of non-perishable food for the Bland Ministry Center.
If the local company’s employees – with help from the community – reach the goal, the ABB Foundation will donate $1 per pound of food up to $3,000. This will result in 3,000 lbs of food and $3,000 for the ministry center.
“This could not have come at a better time of year,” remarked Dee Dee Hoosier, director of the Bland Ministry Center. “We have seen a dramatic increase in the number of families visiting our food pantry and as we begin preparation for the Christmas Project the financial donation is also desperately needed.”
She noted the center paid over $7,000 last year for turkeys used in the food boxes. In years past, Hoosier said, a grant from a local foundation donated toward the cost.
“Last year, due to the economy, the foundation was unable to approve the grant application,” she pointed out. “We have already received notification that the foundation will be unable to offer assistance this Christmas as well. The employees of ABB have always been avid supporters of the center and this food drive is just an extension of the community spirit that has always been shown.”
According to an ABB spokesman, the food drive started last week. It will continue through Nov. 15.
Anyone wishing to contribute to the food drive may give the items to an ABB employee. Food also may be dropped off at the plant’s receptionist area.
“We cannot begin to thank ABB Bland enough for selecting the ministry center as the recipient and for helping us make a difference in our community,” Hoosier added.
According to her, applications for the Christmas Project must be made in person this year. They will be accepted through Dec. 1.
Wayne Quesenberry can be reached at 1-800-655-1406 or .