High Plain Library District donates more than 6K pounds to food banks

[Longmont Times-Call]

Courtesy of High Plains Library District

'Tis the season to give, and that's just what nearly 800 High Plains Library District patrons did during the High Plains Library District's (HPLD) Food Drive.

From Oct. 19 through Nov. 1, HPLD sponsored a food drive to support the Weld Food Bank, Carbon Valley Help Center and Erie Food Bank.

"Recognizing that the need and demand for food increases during the holidays the HPLD once again chose to offer its food for fines program in an effort to help fill the shelves in time for the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons," said Kelli Johnson, public information manager for High Plains, "The strain and stress of the holidays brings an increased demand for food support at local food banks and pantries and we want to be a part of helping those in need in our community," added Johnson.

HPLD upped the ante on its food drive this year by offering fine forgiveness of up to $70 for patrons who brought in canned goods and library patrons certainly showed their generosity.

"Community food drives are critically important to the food bank," stated Bob O'Connor, executive director of Weld Food Bank. "We are grateful for community partners like the High Plains Library District who not only help us educate the community on the issue of hunger, but also collect food that we give out to families in need. Without the help of community partners like these, the food bank wouldn't be able to serve those in Weld County who are hungry this year."

The district's goal was to donate more than they had in 2013 and they certainly succeeded. This year's donation was 6,610 lbs of food, up from 3,302 lbs in 2013.

"This was a win-win all the way around, said Brett Keniston, the librarian in charge of this year's event. "We helped a lot of people clear their accounts so they can use the library again, while at the same time collecting food for less fortunate individuals in our communities. It doesn't get any better than that. Thanks to everyone who contributed to making this program a success."

Participating libraries included libraries in Greeley, Evans, Kersey, Eaton, Erie, Firestone, Fort Lupton, Johnstown and Hudson.

For additional information about High Plains Library District please call 970-506-8560 or visit www.MyLibrary.us.