SHAMOKIN, Pa. — The Salvation Army of Sunbury and Shamokin helps hundreds of families during the holiday season. One of the ways it does that is the holiday food distribution in Shamokin.
"I try to raise enough money to supply the meat portion of it, and then the Salvation Army handles the other food," said Brian Persing, the food drive chair.
Each year, Persing raises money to buy hams for the food distribution. This year, donations are down.
"Usually, at this point in time, we have enough money for 400 to 500 hams. As of today, we have enough money for 134."
The group needs money for 400 hams by this weekend. While they have gotten donations from community members, donations from area businesses are way down.
"On an average year, I usually get just from local businesses anywhere from $3,000 to $4,000. I haven't gotten a dollar," Persing said.
"Every little bit counts, and I know everybody is in a rough time. These last couple of years have been tough. I can understand they're all trying to take care of themselves," said Earl Sheriff, owner of Irish Isle Provision in Shamokin.
Sheriff provides the hams at cost.
"I love doing it because, at this time of year, there's a lot of people down. I know even people who have decent jobs, they're hurting too."
Hams are $14 each. If you'd like to donate, stop at Irish Isle Provisions or call the store at 570-648-6893.
The distribution is on Monday, and money for more than 200 hams is still needed.