USD 257 Food Service Director Staci Talkington is launching a Thanksgiving food drive. As Talkington considered the uncertainty of SNAP funding — due to the extended government shutdown, benefits are set to lapse this Saturday — and the upcoming Thanksgiving break, she decided now was the time to act.
“My concern is that over the holiday, a lot of kids won’t have good choices” when it comes to healthy food, said Talkington. “I hope to be able to give every child who signs up three days’ worth of food.”
To do so, she’s asking for community support. Individuals can leave donations at Iola elementary, middle and high schools, as well as Emprise Bank, Community National Bank & Trust, G&W Foods of Iola, and Thrive Allen County. Donations will be accepted from Monday, Nov. 3 until Friday, Nov. 21. Non-perishable and shelf-stable items in particular are requested.
Food packages will be distributed Monday, Nov. 24 at the USD 257 district office at 305 N. Washington.
To receive assistance, Talkington asks that parents call her at 620-365-4711 and leave a voicemail with their name. Donations are intended for USD 257 families. All information will remain confidential.
Talkington said about one-quarter of USD 257 families currently receive SNAP benefits. Even a delay in SNAP funding would place many families in a difficult situation.
Food prices have gone up almost 30% over the last five years.
In the last 12 months, groceries have risen 3.2%, outpacing overall inflation, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
