SIKESTON, MO. (WSIL) -- The Southeast Missouri Food Bank is welcoming back volunteers and has many opportunities for locals to step up and help those who are struggling to put a meal on the table.
For health and safety reasons, volunteer opportunities had to be put on hold during the pandemic. That's when the Missouri National Guard stepped in to pack and distribute thousands of boxes of food each month.
The group also received a short-term grant to hire a dozen workers who had lost their jobs due to the impacts of the virus.
Lisa Church, who's the Chief Advancement Officer for the book bank, says the national guard's time will be up at the end of this month, so the return of volunteers is crucial.
"We don't have the time or the staff to do that kind of packing on a regular basis," she explains. "This is a way for those volunteers to come in, and do something for a few hours in the morning or afternoon. It makes a huge difference in getting food to people who really need it."
The SEMO food bank serves 16 counties, some of those being among the most food insecure in the state. Programs help residents of all ages including children, families and seniors.
Those interested in volunteering, can find more information on the food bank's website .
