Empty Pantry Fund food baskets were packed Thursday at the Tennessee Army National Guard Armory and delivered Sunday, giving the less-fortunate in Blount County the means of having a good Christmas dinner and then some — enough food to feed a family of four for over a week.

Recipients were not the only ones who received joy in the day, however. The volunteers who helped pack and deliver the foods were just as blessed, if their numbers are any indication.

Empty Pantry Fund Chairman Paul Bales said, “This was the biggest turnout of volunteers I think we’ve ever had. The Armory was completely emptied of food by 9 o’clock Sunday morning.”

Now that the food has been delivered. the task turns to paying for it. Tax-deductible donations will continue to be accepted through Dec. 31, with any funds remaining when all bills are paid to be placed in an interest-bearing account with the Blount Chamber Foundation to kick off the 2010 campaign.

Donations to date

Source: The Daily Times