County fire stations collecting food, items for the needy

Donating food for the needy has become even easier in advance of the holidays, as all nine Fayette County fire stations will accept donations for the countywide Fayette Samaritans food pantry through Nov. 15.

Fayette Samaritans is a non-profit agency that assists the needy by not just providing food but also emergency assistance for Fayette residents who qualify for help.

Among the top 10 needs of the Samaritans food pantry are:
• Canned meats including tuna, chicken, salmon, beef stew, sloppy joe and spaghetti
• Canned fruits, cereal, juice, jellies/jams, and soup.
• Also diapers, sizes 3 and 4, along with toiletries, toilet paper, paper products, detergent and hand soap.

Among ongoing needs for the Samaritans are the above plus spaghetti sauce and noodles; peanut butter and jelly; macaroni and cheese; cereal; oatmeal and crackers; rice and potatoes; diapers; cleaning supplies including laundry and dish soap; window and multi-purpose cleaners; and personal care items such as bar soap, shampoo, feminine products, razors, toothbrushes, toothpaste and lotions.

Donations will be accepted through Nov. 15 at the following fire stations:
• 450 Hwy. 279, Fayetteville
• 1330 Hwy. 92 north, Fayetteville
• 935 Senoia Road, Tyrone
• 175 Johnson Avenue, Fayetteville
• 1830 Hwy. 85 south, Fayetteville
• 903 Hwy. 85 Connector, Brooks
• 220 Hampton Road, Fayetteville
• 212 Flat Creek Trail, Fayetteville
• 195 Seay Road, Fayetteville

Because October is Fire Safety Education Month, residents are invited to meet local firefighters as they drop off donations to Fayette Samaritans so they can learn about fire prevention in their homes and businesses, said Fayette County Fire Chief and Public Safety Director Allen McCullough.