Business to host canned food drive

Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio is making grassroots efforts to make a difference in the community.

In Sheffield Village, Strata Financial Group LLC. is hosting a food drive for Second Harvest from Nov. 1-15.

Donations will be accepted at Strata Financial at 5058 Waterford Drive in Sheffield Village, 35251 Queen Anns Way in Avon, and Second Harvest at 5510 Baumhart Road in Lorain.

Susan Bartosch, director of external affairs for Second Harvest, said the work of community members during the novel coronavirus pandemic has brought her overwhelming joy.

“Grassroots project like that of Sheffield Village banding together to provide food for their community, is unbelievably awesome,” Bartosch said.

During the drive, certain foods are being sought out

Bartosch said these foods are called “the super six,” which are comprised of breakfast cereal, canned tuna or chicken, peanut butter, canned vegetables, canned soup or stew and canned entree.

“We’re looking for protein heavy foods like peanut butter and canned tuna,” she said. “We’re also looking for cereal since 38% to 40% of who we serve are children.

“We’re looking for hearty and nourishing food items.”

A new facet Second Harvest introduced to the community is an online food drive service.

“We’re trying to keep people as safe as possible,” Bartosch said. “There are people who want to help and are at risk and they can create their own food drive for their individual groups on our website.”

For instance, Bartosch said people can give monetary donations or purchase a pallet of beans, onions or other needed items.

“It’s a safe and easy option, and people are still able to help out” she said.

Although Bartosch is aware not everyone can help, she said those who can truly are making a difference in Lorain County.

“People have continued to take care of their neighbors and their community,” she said. “The bottom line is that somebody who legitimately needs food, will be able to get it.

“There have been a lot of people saying ‘What can we do, or how can I help my neighbor?’”