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Woodland Mall to collect food donations for students at back-to-school event Aug. 19

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Families are getting ready for the start of a new school year (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Woodland Mall and The Salvation Army in Kent County are helping local students get ready to go back to school with a fun event and food drive 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19.

The event will serve as a fundraiser for The Salvation Army’s emergency food pantry. It will also feature a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy in Woodland Mall’s Macy’s Court.

On a monthly basis, The Salvation Army feeds 550 people, including 145 children, and that number is increasing daily.

“We used to provide people with enough food to last three to five days,” said Victoria Arnold, director of Kent County Social Services. “Due to increased demand, we now provide enough food for six days. And we predict we will need another $10,000 alone to stay at that level, just for the next year.”

An increasing number of families are in need food during the school year (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

Attendees are encouraged to bring shelf-stable food donations to the event or make a monetary donation online to support Salvation Army Kent County Social Services, which provides food pantries, warm meals and sack lunches for community members in need. Personal care items, household products, clothing and baby essentials are also accepted.

“Countless families struggle to access nutritious food, and most affected are children,” said Mikia Ross, interim Senior Marketing Director for Woodland Mall. “To help address this issue, we’re focusing on promoting nutrition for children and families during this year’s back-to-school season and encouraging the community to participate by donating to our charitable partner, Salvation Army. Together, we can help students get the fuel they need to start their academic year out strong!”

Suggested items for donation include:

  • Canned goods, including meats, fruits and vegetables, with a pop top.
  • Pasta and pasta sauces.
  • Ramen noodles.
  • Macaroni and cheese.

While supporting the nonprofit, event attendees will be able to meet special characters like Princess Tiana and Captain America, enjoy DJ music and games, get their faces painted, make friendship bracelets, view back-to-school fashion displays and get makeover consultations. Those who make a monetary or food donation will also be able to capture memories with a photo booth.

More information is available at ShopWoodlandMall.com/events.