Salvation Army needs donations to replenish food pantry

(CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Two recent periods of bitterly cold weather has left the Salvation Army pantry low on food.

Volunteers need extra supplies to provide meals and food boxes for those in need.

The Salvation Army can accept donations at its Huntsville office at 2114 Oakwood Ave. or the Salvation Army Thrift Store at 385 Hughes Road in Madison.

Many items are need for family food boxes:

* Breakfast items — Cereal, oatmeal, grits, cream of wheat, Pop Tarts, breakfast bars, pancake/muffin mixes, evaporated and powdered milk.

* Canned meats — Spam, tuna fish, chicken, Vienna sausages, chili, hearty soups and beef stew.

* Snacks — Peanut butter, jelly, crackers, juices and canned fruits.

* Dried goods — Instant potatoes, dried beans and rice.

* Condiments — Mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup.

During the Arctic blast, miles of stranded motorists filled the interstates around Atlanta. The Salvation Army collaborated with the National Guard to distribute warm meals and hot coffee to individuals and families who were immobile due to the icy freeways.

Salvation Army also responded to dangerous conditions by dispatching canteens along downtown streets to offer welcomed relief in the form of food and prayer to those stranded. The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center in downtown Atlanta prepared hot meals for motorists, many stuck in their vehicles for up to 24 hours.

In addition, warming centers offered sanctuary for men, women and children affected by the freezing temperatures and wind chill.

For more information, call 256-536-5576 or visit salvationarmyhuntsville.org.