Brad Quinn, left, Manager of Quinn’s Jewelry, 104 W. Main Street, Morrison, IL, concluded a two-month community service campaign on Thursday, January 16, 2014. He presented canned goods, boxed side dishes, Doritos, cookies, and $230 to Kaywn Beswick, Director of Morrison Friends Food Pantry. The 10:30 a.m. transfer was a pleasant start to the day for both. Quinn collected $210 last year.
From November through December 2013, Quinn offered his customers a convenient way to support the pantry. He asked them to contribute either money or five food products. In turn, he gave them a 20% discount on store merchandise, combining Christmas giving and Christmas gift shopping.
Beswick was appreciative of the generous customers at Quinn’s Jewelry. She mentioned that monetary gifts are always welcome.
“I can buy boxes of Cheerios for $0.20 a box from the Riverbend Food Pantry,” she stated. “Shopping allows us to fill in items that are not plentiful [in the MFFP].”
“We are one of the few [pantries] that give toiletries and cleaning supplies. These are not available with Food Stamps [either,] but people need them.”
Beswick reported over 200 people a month seek assistance from Morrison Friends Food Pantry. Some may only visit once or twice, because they find employment. Others are living in Morrison for a short time, due to a life crisis. For example, one local family took in victims of Hurricane Katrina and sought help for them. Other local families help relatives who have lost jobs.
Between five and seven days’ worth of food goes to users. Everyone receives cereal, soup, boxed meals, and canned fruits and vegetables–staples that will last within the month. Beswick noted macaroni and cheese is a good choice, because it can be prepared by older students after school.
For those who have strong preferences, the staff at Morrison Friends Food Pantry will vary the contents. For example, one man receives extra cans of spinach!