ASA Food Pantry Provides Help During the Holiday Season The winter holiday season is upon us again, and as stressful as it sometimes
gets for those of us in good health, can you imagine what it would be like if
you weren’t? The holidays can be an especially difficult time for folks living
with HIV/AIDS and their families.
Facing an insufficient income makes it hard to keep nutritious food on the
table, yet management of this disease depends significantly on an adequate,
well-balanced diet. That’s where AIDS Services of Austin’s Helping Hands Food
Pantry can assist. The Food Pantry is currently serving an average of 386
people each month, many of whom would otherwise do without during this season
of abundance.
The Food Pantry is stocked mainly through cash and food donations from
individuals, businesses, community organizations, clubs, and churches. You can
donate food items, money, or volunteer time. Food can be dropped off at the
collection barrel at Whole Foods at Lamar and Sixth Street or brought to the
Food Pantry at 825 E. 531/2 St., Suite E-101 (off Airport
Boulevard). Cash is used to buy perishable items such as milk, meat, and
produce. Volunteers sack groceries, prepare bulk items, and do home deliveries.
Perhaps your business or church could sponsor a food drive. That’s a great way
to pool resources and is welcome any time of the year!
We appreciate the support received already this season. Austin’s generosity
helps make the holidays more joyous for those in need. For ways you can help,
call Joette Pelliccia at 406-6130.
ASA Info Line: 458-AIDS
This article appears in December 20 • 1996 and December 20 • 1996 (Cover).