Harrison Commissioner Justin Johnson has organized a food drive for 1st Ward residents to help neighbors in need.
Though federal and state budgets were approved this week and SNAP benefits are expected to be restored, Johnson said “people in need are still going to be in a deficit. They have gone all this time without.”
The 1st Ward is the area near Allegheny Valley Hospital and Silverlake Park.
The food drive will benefit Allegheny Valley Association of Churches at 1913 Freeport Road, Harrison.
Most-requested items include canned vegetables, tuna, peanut butter, pasta, bread, cereal, rice, boxed meals, pet food, gloves and socks.
Donations can be dropped off at four locations in Harrison: Dairy Queen, 1613 Freeport Road; Harvest Church, 1207 Pacific Ave.; Lady Locks by Charlene, 1419 Sixth St.; or Johnson’s house, 1205 Carlisle St.
“With the holidays coming up, people need extra,” Johnson said.
The food drive will run through Jan. 2 to cover Thanksgiving and Christmas, and to supplement pantries heading into January.
