‘Hunger Takes No Vacation’ drive underway at SC state parks

South Carolina’s state parks have launched a five-month food drive to help statewide pantries feed the hungry.

The parks are partnering with the S.C. Food Bank Association for the “Hunger Takes No Vacation” drive.

Through Nov. 30, residents are invited to drop off unopened, nonperishable food items and goods ‑ especially those left over from vacations and trips ‑ in collection bins when visiting any of the 47 state parks. The parks will send the donations to the official food banks in their regions.

“State parks have always been an important part of our local communities, and our contributions should come in many different forms,” said Duane Parrish, director of the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. “We have the public space and a constituency that’s passionate about service – whether it’s the park visitor, camping clubs, Scout groups, families and church groups. This is truly a win-win in the best sense of the term.”

Some of the most requested items are canned vegetables, canned meats, dry goods, peanut butter, beans, toiletries, diapers, detergents and plastic bags.

A special “Pack a Park Truck” event will be held July 25 to generate more awareness and donations.

The South Carolina Food Bank Association includes Harvest Hope Food Bank, Golden Harvest Food Bank, Lowcountry Food Bank and Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.

Some food banks experience greater difficulty collecting donations during the summer months when there typically is a greater need for food.

“When school is out and people are traveling or focused on other pursuits, it’s sometimes difficult to remember that we continue to have a number of South Carolinians who are struggling with hunger,” said Denise Holland, Harvest Hope CEO and president of the S.C. Food Bank Association.

According to the association, more than 860,000 state residents lived below the poverty threshold in 2013. That’s about 18.6 percent of the population or 1 in 5.4 people. The national average is 15.8 percent or 1 in 6.3 people.

“We’re asking that, while you’re on vacation or visiting destinations in South Carolina, that you keep the needy in mind,” Holland said. “We make it a little easier by placing collection bins at each of the 47 state parks in South Carolina.”

For more information on “Hunger Takes No Vacation,” contact Dawn Dawson-House at ddawson@scprt.com or call (803) 734-1779.

This story was originally published July 6, 2015 at 4:36 PM.