Salvation Army: Bessemer food pantry is nearly empty

A spokesperson for the local Salvation Army says that the Bessemer community center will run out of food very soon.

The food pantry normally feeds between 50 and 60 families in need every month, many of which have small children. But the many empty shelves mean the center has to turn the hungry away.

"It's painful," Salvation Army Officer Captain Thomas Broome said in a press release. "It's not something we normally deal with, and we don't like having to tell someone we can't feed you or your children."

The pantry has a few canned goods and potatoes now. They cannot distribute any food until their inventory if replenished. If you would like to help, the center is accepting food as well as monetary donations at 525 13th St. N. Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. You can also call the center at 205-425-4303.

Items need include:

Soups

Canned meats

Canned fruits and vegetables

Tomato sauces

Dried goods like rice, instant potatoes, pasta, peanut butter and breakfast foods

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