200-plus load boxes with food for needy

First Presbyterian Church of Rome became a “madhouse” Sunday evening, as one volunteer said while darting toward a box with her arms full of food. 

The church’s annual program loads about $40 worth of food items, including chicken, canned goods, and fruits and veggies, into 500 boxes that will be given to families in need Monday afternoon.

Dan Pate, co-chair of the effort, said that despite harder economic times, this year was the easiest yet to raise the money the church uses to buy the food, and he’s been helping organize the event for eight years.

“It effects everybody, so it makes you more sensitive to the needs of others,” said Pate.

To read more about the church’s collection effort, volunteers, and the food distribution process, pick up a free copy of The Newswire. Our latest weekly newspaper will available beginning Monday afternoon. To see where you can get your free copy, click RNW PICK-UP LOCATIONS at the top of our homepage.