According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2010 American Community Survey, 17.9% of Georgia's population is currently living below the poverty level. In our community specifically, 15.2% of Camden County's population lives below the poverty level according to quick facts from 2009. Unfortunately poverty level percentages continue to increase each year as data is released due to the drastic downturn of the current economy.
Living in poverty puts tremendous stress and burdens on families, forcing individuals to make difficult decisions of whether to feed their children, or pay rent & bills to keep a safe and warm dwelling place for their families. To assist those who struggle with poverty and hunger in our community, Camden County Government's HOPE Committee is partnering with CCHS SkillsUSA to collect non-perishable food items to benefit those in need during this holiday season.
“Our employees are always very giving; they work diligently to make each food drive a success. It is gratifying to see members of our community, local business and our youth come together for such a worthy cause,” said Katie Bishop, County Clerk and Chair of the HOPE Committee.
Carlos Jones, Jr. of CCHS added, “It is a great privilege for SkillsUSA to help those in our community who are struggling in these hard economics times. To know that we are going to be able to help families with such a need makes me feel honored to be a part of such a great community. Thanks for letting SkillsUSA help!”
Items can be dropped off in the designated boxes at County offices and Camden County High School. For the safety of those we serve, we are unable to accept open packages, homemade food items, perishable foods, or items with expired dates.
For more information or to have a bin delivered to your office please contact SkillsUSA Advisor Carlos Jones, Jr. at (912) 729-7318, ext. 2248 or County Clerk Katie Bishop at (912) 576-5651.
THE DEADLINE FOR ALL DONATIONS IS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2011.
Thank you for supporting hunger relief in our community! Your donation will make a difference for people all over Camden County!