WARSAW – As we get closer to the holiday season, more organizations are holding food drives to make the season a little brighter.
Wednesday in Warsaw, there was a one-day blitz taking the food drive concept to a whole new level.
Donations turned into a competition of sorts.
Throughout the day, the aisles of Owens Supermarket were busy with shoppers on a holiday mission.
They took part in the second annual “Supermarket Sweep – Give ‘Til You Drop” event, sponsored with the help of Mission Point Community Church and Grace College.
All filling their shopping carts for one day with food that will go to local food pantries in less than 36 hours.
“The collection of the food, the donation of the food, and the delivery of the food to these food banks is all going to happen so quickly,” said Jamie Koser of Mission Point. “The immediacy of the event, I think, really excites people.”
As an added bit of fun, there’s a friendly competition to see what group can have the most people take part and bring in the most food, including students, at nearby Grace College.
“The college students really want to help,” said Kearstin Criswell. “They have a big heart for serving and for giving. But sometimes, they need the opportunity and the chance.”
The event has caught the imagination and attention of many around the area who took part, a big factor knowing that what they give will go to help the needy almost immediately.
“It’s like these people will use it immediately; it’s not like I am shipping things overseas or giving money,” said Joan Barrette of Warsaw.
“It’s just a way and a very easy and very effective way for people to give back to the community,” added Jeff Pritchard of Winona Lake.
Becky Bremer shopped on behalf of her employer, Orthopediatrics. Workers recently made $155 in a fundraiser.
“And Orthopediatrics also matched that, so I will be spending over $300 here,” Bremer said.
Owens Supermarket on East Center Street will be taking food donations until 11 p.m. tonight (Wednesday).
