On behalf of the Community Action Council's board of directors, staff and customers, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Maura Dunnigan, Susan McDonald, John Herdson, Sue Mangan, Cindy Six and the Columbia Neighborhood Swim League swimmers, coaches and parents for spearheading the All-City Meet Food Drive.

We all hope that no one would ever have to choose between paying their rent and feeding their family. But unfortunately, that is the reality for many families living in Howard County. This is increasingly apparent during the summer months, when families with children do not get the extra help of schools providing at least one free meal for the children.

In the first six months of 2009, more than 3,500 families made the choice to seek assistance by coming to the Howard County Food Bank to receive basic foods. During the same period, Howard County Food Bank provided more than 140,000 pounds of food to those families in need.

Recognizing the heightened demand for food assistance from low-income families in Howard County and the dwindling supply of food at the Food Bank, Columbia Neighborhood Swim League team managers organized a food drive for the All-City Meet at the Phelps Luck pool. It is with delight and gratefulness that we report the outpouring of the league's amazing display of generosity. The members of the CNSL realize that hunger is a critical day-to-day issue for far too many families in Howard County, including working parents, children and the elderly.

The Howard County Food Bank received in excess of 1,100 pounds of food from the All-City Meet Food Drive. This wonderful contribution allows us to restock our food bank and continue to support the families who are served by us.

The Howard County Food Bank invites volunteers to donate or help serve clients. The Food Bank is open to the public on Mondays 1-6 p.m., Tuesdays 1-4 p.m. and Thursdays 1-4 p.m.

Natalie Janiszewski

Columbia

Natalie Janiszewski is chairperson of the board of directors of the Community Action Council of Howard County.

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