Family Food, Restaurants & Dining Fara Illich November 17, 2009

Food banks, Goodwill, the Salvation Army and other charitiable organizations accept donations year-round but the need is dangerously high during the holidays, especially in these lean economic times. From canned goods and other non-perishable food items to toiletries, clothing, blankets and toys, less-fortunate families and individuals need your help, not only to have a brighter holiday but in some cases simply to survive. There are several ways you can help, but here are three easily accessible Downtown charity drives that are in desperate need of your attention and generosity: 
Downtown Ambassador Food Drive
Those cheery and helpful Ambassadors in the orange shirts hope you’ll think of families and individuals who are less fortunate than you this holiday season and are collecting for the Saint Mary’s Food Bank Nov. 18 thru Jan. 6. In addition to canned good and non-perishable items, the Ambassadors are requesting items that will help the displaced and impoverished stay warm on cold winter nights, including blankets, sweaters, coats, comforters, shoes, boots, thick socks, jeans or any cold weather Soupgear and layering clothing you can spare. You can drop off your donations at Ambassador headquarters (101 N. 1st Ave. #190) or, if you work Downtown, an Ambassador will gladly come pick them up at your office. For more information or to schedule a pick-up, call 602-495-1500.
Hygiene Drive Hosted By Crave Sandwich Cafe
Central Arizona Shelter Services (C.A.S.S.) is requesting much-needed toiletries and supplies in high demand this holiday season. You can drop off shampoo, conditioner, razors, razor blades, shaving cream, liquid body soap and wash, bath towels, deoderant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, feminine hygiene produces and twin bed sheets now thru Dec. 12 at Crave Sandwich Cafe (541 E. Van Buren St.). For more information call 602-257-1616.
Society of St. Vincent de Paul Food Drive
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is an international non-profit organization dedicated to serving the poor and they are currently taking donations for their Thanksgiving Food Drive. You are encouraged to drop off canned goods and other non-perishables at Saint Mary’s Basilica (231 N. Third Street) anytime and this drive culminates during the 9 am mass on Thanksgiving Day Nov. 26. For more information call 602-263-8856.