El Pasoans Fighting Hunger kicks off Spring food drive

For many kids, summer break is a time of food insecurity. Some don’t know where their next meal will come from.

ABC-7 is joining forces once again with El Pasoans Fighting Hunger and Albertson’s, with a focus on getting food to those children during summer break.

El Pasoans Fighting Hunger is the only food distribution center for more than 120 pantries. It runs on donations and volunteers.

“Volunteers are the heart of our organization. Last year we had 8,500 volunteers come to sort food. It’s very important that when it comes we sort it correctly…we don’t want anyone getting sick,” says EPFH Chief Development Officer Terri Wyatt.

Our ABC-7 crews caught up with local UTEP teaching students who were spending their spring break volunteering. They spent the day sorting bread, cake mix and juice donations.

“I’m giving my time to give back to those in need. I started at a low income level so I know they really need that. It’s a way to give back,” says Alejandra Gutierrez.

Each volunteer watches a video and is taught how to sort the food. They check expiration dates, and learn which dented cans contain food suitable for consumption. Some donations sadly have to be donated to a local pig farm.

EPFH tries to make it easy on volunteers – there are morning and afternoon shifts during the week, and weekend time slots, too.

Volunteers tell us they feel fulfilled lending a hand, and they also encourage those who need help to come forward.

You can make a donation at any area Albertson’s. Even the smallest donations add up to make a big difference in the fight against hunger.

If you need food, or if you would like to help volunteer, click here.