By MorinvilleNews.com Staff
Morinville – The parking lot at Big Al’s landscaping supply yard saw a steady stream of vehicles Saturday afternoon, but not all of the vehicles were coming to haul away rock and gravel. Many had come to drop off food for the Morinville Food Bank Society. In total, 1,275 pounds of food were donated along with $150 in cash.
Al Pangborn, owner of Big Al’s Custom Hauling and Landscaping Supplies had been working on organizing the food bank drive for about a month leading up to the July 16 event and said he was pleased with the results of what will be an annual event.
“I think it went good,” Pangborn said late Saturday afternoon. “It’s the first year and I want to do it every year.” The local businessman said he was appreciative of everyone who came out to support the Morinville Food Bank Society at his event. “It’s just awesome,” he said of the support. “Totally awesome. They need the food. That’s for sure.”
Pangborn’s plan was to fill the end dump he uses to haul gravel and other supplies to his landscaping yard on 100 Street with donations to the food bank. Although the donations did not fill the massive trailer, it is certain the half ton of donations received will fill the stomachs of those whom the local non-profit, volunteer-run organization seeks to help.
Late Saturday afternoon those donations were lifted to the end dump for a photo opportunity then taken out again to be transported to the Morinville Food Bank by trailer.
Food Bank volunteers, Ken and Isabelle Skjersven, who have championed the cause for many years, were pleased with Pangborn’s campaign and the success of the same.
I think it’s excellent,” Ken Skjersven said after witnessing the donations being loaded into the hauler. “I think it’s a great thing. It’s certainly helping out the food bank. That’s for sure.”
The local food bank received a lot of requests during the Slave Lake evacuation from evacuees who were staying in the Morinville area.
Although the Morinville Food Bank Society does not turn anyone away based on geographical location, they primarily receive requests for assistance from those living in Morinville, Legal and parts of Sturgeon County, including Cardiff and Riviere Qui Barre.
Since moving to their new location behind the Flower Stop on 100 Avenue, the Morinville Food Bank Society now has additional space to store non-perishables than they did in their previous location; however, they are now able to take frozen foods, including meat and frozen vegetables.
The Food Bank is open from noon until 2 p.m. on Tuesday’s and Thursdays; however, those in need can always call and leave a message at 780-939-2636.
