River Hill’s Annual Month of Giving: “Families Helping Families”

This November the River Hill Community Association is collecting food to help refill the shelves of the Howard County Food Bank.  Despite Howard County’s affluence, the recession and increased unemployment have taken their toll on our community.  Since 2008 the number of individuals and families seeking food assistance has continually increased.  In fiscal year 2010 (July 2009 to June 2010) almost 13,000 individuals received food assistance.  This was an increase of 100% compared to the previous fiscal year. In the first quarter of 2011, approximately 3,000 individuals received assistance compared to 2,000 same period last year (50% increase).

“No single neighborhood has been immune to the effects of the economic downturn,” said Bita Dayhoff, President of the Community Action Council which administers the Howard County Food Bank.

“Every family knows of a friend, relative, or a neighbor who has experienced underemployment, unemployment, foreclosure, or many other risk factors that create a social crisis within the family unit,” according to Dayhoff. “Yet everyday we are inspired by the will of a community that has risen to this challenge. Howard County continues to be supportive of the Community Action Council’s services by donating their time, talent, and treasure to assure the organization is positioned to help those in need.”

The Food Bank is requesting canned and boxed foods such as cereals, pasta, vegetables, soups, and toiletries such as toothpaste, toilet paper, soaps and deodorants. Boxes will be available in the lobby of Claret Hall from November 1 – 30. Please help River Hill assist struggling Howard County families during this holiday season.