Local elected officials and state political candidates unified Tuesday afternoon to pack food supplies at Feeding America Southwest Virginia’s Abingdon distribution food bank to mark the first Virginia Legislators Volunteer Day.
“Anytime you have an economically distressed area with a significant number of large families, like we have throughout Southwest Virginia, it’s a grave concern to have food banks that can meet that huge need,” said Delegate Bill Carrico, R-Independence, as he bagged food for school backpacks – alongside fellow Delegate Joe Johnson, D-Abingdon.
“As a country, we do so much to help other countries,” added Carrico, now seeking the District 40 state Senate seat. “It’s time we do more to reach out to help our own who need food.”
Carrico and Johnson were among several politicos who appeared to mark the first Virginia Legislators Volunteer Day, aimed at encouraging legislators to volunteer at food banks during September, which is officially designated Hunger Action Month across the state.
In addition to Carrico and Johnson, Republican 5th District state delegate candidate Israel O’Quinn, Washington County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Dulcie Mumpower and Abingdon Town Councilman Jason Berry packed items ranging from applesauce, milk and cereal to green beans, beef chili and tuna for needy area schoolchildren who regularly receive food for after-school meals.
A representative from Republican 9th District U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith’s office also attended the event, held at the 20,364-square-foot Abingdon distribution center.
It provides food to pantries in 11 counties across Southwest Virginia – including Washington County and Bristol – and has already distributed 400,000 pounds more than at this time in 2010, said Gary Mitchell, branch director at Feeding America’s Abingdon site.
“Sometimes, you can look around [the center] and see food racks that are entirely empty,” Mitchell said. “But it’s not because we’re not getting donations of food. It’s because the food supplies are coming in and going out so quickly.”
Added Mitchell: “In our region, the need for food among families just continues to grow. It’s a real challenge. It’s wonderful to have [area politicians] serving as volunteers and highlighting that need.”
Johnson – one of Virginia’s longest-serving legislators, who is seeking re-election in November – said he jumped at the chance to volunteer.
“It’s very important that our neighbors and families, who need food, know that we’re thinking of them and working to help them,” Johnson said. “If I can help my little bit by packing some food, I’m thrilled to do it.”
rbrown@bristolnews.com
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