In case you thought AthleticFoodie forgot about our promised food donations to a local food pantry, fear not. As promised we donated one heart-healthy item for every food or fitness photo posted on the our Facebook page. Two items for those who posted multiple photos. Our total was more than 50 items. That was pretty darn good since we conducted the effort right after launching our page.
Since our mantra is “a better life through better nutrition,” we only shopped for healthy foods. We tried to be conscious of salt, sugar and fat content, and find food that could be filling and nutritious. If you do your own shopping, you know this isn’t always an easy assignment, especially on a minimal budget. No matter what a person’s financial status, in this country, we should all be able to eat healthy and nourishing food. Among the food we donated was 100% whole wheat pasta, single serving cinnamon and regular apple sauce, healthy choice low-sodium soups, and tuna packed in water. We chose quality over quantity.
The pantry is in a small town. People sat in rows waiting for their number to be called so they could pick foods from various categories. Not only do people need food, but they were also there for baby items like formula and diapers. There were old people, mothers and fathers with their young children, seniors, middle age men and women. In today’s economy, you just never know who will be in need of help. It can be surprising.
I have always been fortunate, and believe that when we can give back, we should. I’ve always believed everyone is only one day away from being “homeless,” which is why I drive a mini-van. My thought is, with a van and a warm sleeping bag, I could survive. I hope in these hard times that all of you are doing well, and can find healthy foods to eat. If you have any extra time and/or resources… Food Banks Need Your Help.
Diane 
