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PLUMSTED: Emergency services, business take stand against hunger

By Amy Batista, Special Writer
   PLUMSTED — The emergency services have teamed up with local businesses to Camp Out for Hunger during this holiday season.
   ”This is a first for us; we change our activities each year,” said Josh Jamison, fireman and EMT and a member of the Plumsted Township Fireman’s Mutual Benevolent Association Local No. 89, in an email Nov. 15.
   Last year, the department participated in the Toys for Tots program.
   ”The food banks need food,” he said. “They can’t fulfill their mission of helping others if no one helps them gain food.”
   He said they are asking for nonperishable food items.
   Items will be collected until Nov. 28 and donated to WMMRs Camp Out for Hunger to help Philabundance, a nonprofit organization that been helping people in need since 1984.
   According to the website, here is a list of the most-needed nonperishable foods: canned shelf stable tuna, macaroni and cheese, canned pasta, canned beef stew, canned chili, creamy peanut butter, jelly, canned green beans, canned corn, canned fruit, breakfast cereal and hot cereal.
   Choose products that are in boxes, cans or plastic bottles and do not have to be refrigerated. Bread and baked goods are not suitable because of their short shelf life. Items should be recently purchased and in good condition, according to the website.
   ”Our residents help us out tremendously, but if they are willing, we are accepting nonperishable food items,” he said.
   Items can be dropped off at the New Egypt Fire Company at 59 Main St. Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.; New Egypt EMS at 32 Brynmore Road from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; New Egypt Market Place at 53 Main St. during business hours; or Laurita Winery at 35 Archertown Road.
   ”The challenges we are facing are the inability to get the word out that we are collecting,” he said “Once the word gets out, our residents and local businesses always help out.”
   According to its website, all donations benefit Philabundance — feeding the hungry of the Delaware Valley.
   ”We are grateful of their continued support over the past few years; activities and drives like this wouldn’t be possible without them,” he said.