Congressman Thompson honors food banks and plowshares

The Ukiah Daily Journal

Congressman Mike Thompson (D-CA) hosted an event at Fetzer Valley Oaks in Hopland and recognized Plowshares and the Food Banks of Ukiah, Willits and Laytonville. At the event the Congressman presented each organization with a plate from Hoyman-Browe studio in Ukiah. Approximately 60 pounds of canned goods, pasta, rice and other nonperishable food was collected at the event and donated to the local food banks.

"Thank you to these organizations of Mendocino County who regularly distribute food to anyone who needs it," said Congressman Mike Thompson.

"Due to the recent economic downturn, they have seen their clientele increase and our community has stepped up to the plate to provide for those in need. I urge everyone in our community to continue their generosity to help people through these tough times."

According to Dayle Reed, the Ukiah Food Bank manager, approximately 3,000 people use their services each month and their numbers are growing by about 40 people a month. Reed is launching an "adopt the food bank" program in which businesses, community groups, service clubs, schools and churches are invited to take a week during the year to solicit nonperishable food donations for the Ukiah Food Bank. In addition the Ukiah Food Bank's van delivers food to Round Valley, Laytonville and Boonville.
Plowshares in Ukiah has been providing free hot meals since 1983.

They are located in a beautiful new facility they built and opened last year and serve lunch and dinner Monday through Friday. In addition Plowshares distributes Meals on Wheels to housebound people in Ukiah. Mary Buckley, director of Plowshares said that they are currently serving about 5,000 meals a month.

The Willits Food Bank has seen a thirty percent increase in clients in recent months according to director Jim Marrill. The Willits Food Bank distributes food twice a month to between 450-500 families in the area.

Mendocino County's food banks also distribute food on a weekly and daily basis. A large portion of the food comes from local community food drives, restaurants and grocery stores. The Laytonville Food Bank, directed by Norma Branson, distributes food the third Friday of each month.

Anyone who is interested in volunteering to help with serving or preparing meals or driving for the Meals on Wheels programs at Plowshares, or in donating food to any of the Food Banks is encouraged to call their local food bank.