To the editor:

The Lyon County Democrats wish to thank the Marshall community for their generous donations to the Lyon County Food Drive held on September 27. We collected over 1,300 pounds of food and over $1000 in cash donations for the Kitchen Table Food Shelf.

Hunger is a growing concern in Marshall and the need increases monthly. Nearly 500 families per month rely on the food shelf to make ends meet.

Unfortunately, this situation will likely get worse. Nearly 45,000 Minnesotans will lose food assistance (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as SNAP) due to budget cuts passed by Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach and her fellow Republicans. Anyone who has gone to the grocery store lately knows the cost of food is not going down. Rising prices lower the purchasing power of the consumer and make it more expensive for the food shelf to stock its shelves. This means donations are even more important for the rising numbers who need it.

Our neighbors are hurting. Democrats see the need and want to help.

If you missed the food drive on September 27, you still have an opportunity to give. A donation box will be in the lobby of the Marshall Area YMCA through October 4. Place your food or personal hygiene items in the box and they will be collected and delivered to the food shelf.

Remember you can give to the food shelf year-round or make a donation through the United Community Action Partnership website.

Thank you again, Marshall, for your support of our community members.

Sariah Cheadle, Anita Gaul, Beth Collins, Cathy Schlagel, Shawna Ehlenbach

Food Drive Committee, Lyon County Democrats