The Goodman Community Center's Thanksgiving food drive is in its final stages, but the center still needs items for its gift baskets.
Helen Hazelmare, food pantry coordinator, says the center has committed to distributing baskets to 1,000 Dane County families. But, as in years past, she expects that more will be given out, especially with the ailing economy.
"2009 has been absolutely out of control, so I can't imagine that this would be anything but bursting at the seams," she says.
Hazelmare says the center is looking to score about 150 more turkeys, adding that "they must be frozen." It also needs canned fruit and vegetables, pie tins, pie crust mix, cranberry sauce and evaporated milk. The donated items are needed by Nov. 20 and can be dropped off at the center, 149 Waubesa St. For information call the pantry at 608-241-1574, ext. 249.
To qualify for a basket, families must have at least one child under 17 and fit some rough income guidelines. But, says Hazelmare, "basically, if people are hungry we will feed them."
It's too late to register to receive baskets, which will be distributed Nov. 23 and 24. But Hazelmare urges anyone in need of assistance to dial 211 to reach the United Way help line.
