Food shortages a problem for many families

HIGH SPRINGS – More than 400 families with upwards of 500 children in the High Springs area could go without food this holiday season without the help of the area residents. That is the concern of the director and volunteers at the Community Outreach Program, organized by St. Madeleine’s Church.

“The economic downturn has forced adult children, now with their own families to feed, to move back home,” said program director Bella Diefenderfer. “Due to economic need, combined family units might have as many as 15 people living together.” she said.

There has also been less charitable giving than in previous years, she said. Although the organization formally opened its doors on July 1 of this year, Diefenderfer worked for charities for more than eight years and said she knows how much the families need.

More than 150 families have asked for help to provide Thanksgiving dinners. Around 75 families have requested help with Christmas dinners.

“The need is great and our supplies are limited,” Diefenderfer said. She is worried the organization may not be able to feed everybody during the holidays.

Many of the people the organization serves do not have transportation to go to Gainesville or Lake City to shop, she said. Some volunteers have said even small gift cards to grocery stores could make a difference

“Whatever people wish to give in whatever way they give it is always very much appreciated,” she said.

In addition, the organization is attempting to provide Christmas gifts for upwards of 200 younger children.

“They need food and gifts,” Diefenderfer said.

A new or barely used outfit, a pair of shoes and a toy for a child, could make all the difference for a child, she said. The deadline to submit unwrapped children’s Christmas gifts is Friday, Dec. 13. Anyone wishing to adopt a family for the holidays can contact Diefenderfer directly to make arrangements.

“Without the community’s involvement, outreach will not be able to accomplish its mission, which is to help people less fortunate,” Diefenderfer said.

The fledgling organization feeds more than 400 families located in High Springs, Ft. White, Alachua, Hague and Newberry, plus some families who come in from Gilchrist and Union counties. Many of the families come every 30 days for food and clothing for themselves and their children.

Although the organization does not provide all the food each family needs, they do supplement whatever food supply the families may have to help stretch the food throughout the month, Diefenderfer said.

The Community Outreach Program is open every work-day to help less fortunate families, she said.

“But we can’t do it all without the support of area residents and business owners,” Diefenderfer said.

“These families are in desperate need of help from their communities.”

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