When shopping at local grocery stores in the Greater Binghamton area, I've been asked if I would consider making a donation to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier.  And from time to time, I will make a small donation. Every little bit helps feed the hungry.

The Food Bank of the Southern Tier is a regional agency of Catholic Charities, a member of Feeding America and serves the Hawk listening area:  Broome, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga and Tompkins counties, and includes over 160 hunger-relief member agencies.

It's thanks to donations that in 2007, the organization was able to purchase the 25-foot Mobile Food Pantry that assists in delivering up to 15,000 pounds of food, from fresh produce, dairy products, and other food and grocery items directly to individuals in need.

According to recent Census estimates, 17%, or 87,328 individuals live at or below the Federal Poverty Level.

In 2012 alone, the Mobile Food Pantry trucks distributed 2,817,228 pounds of food at 575 distributions.

The next stop for the Mobile Food Pantry will be Friday May 31st from 1-2pm at the American Legion parking lot at 177 Robinson Street, Binghamton.  Free food will be distributed to those who need it.  All they ask is that you bring bags or boxes to carry your items.

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