"As the days lengthen, the cold strengthens," warns the old New England saying. People who live on a limited income may be especially aware of the change in temperature. They may find themselves facing the choice of eating or heating in the cold winter months.

That’s why the Hanover Food Store runs a food drive for The Haven during the month of February. The Haven, located in White River Junction, Vermont, offers a variety of services, including emergency food provisions, to Upper Valley residents in need. In 2001, the pantry provided food for approximately 108,500 meals. The Haven’s clients may receive food assistance once a month.

The Co-op Food Store in Hanover and the Upper Valley Food Co-op in White River Junction are working together to collect food during the month-long drive. This year’s combined goal is 3,500 pounds of non-perishable items, an amount sufficient to stock The Haven’s food pantry for about a month.

During the month of February, shoppers at the Hanover store have the opportunity to donate nutritious items such as canned soup and baked beans to The Haven’s pantry. Special shelf tags with The Haven Food Drive logo indicate items that are needed the most. Every can of soup, jar of spaghetti sauce, and box of cereal that customers add to the collection box makes a difference in the lives of our Upper Valley neighbors.

Co-op shoppers have three ways to participate in the food drive:

	contribute non-perishable food in the collection box at the front of the Hanover store;
	make a cash contribution at the register that will be used to buy caselots of needed food items;
	volunteer time to help make the drive a success.

Each year the Co-op relies on volunteers to box, weigh, and deliver food to The Haven from the Hanover store. This activity takes place at the volunteers’ convenience between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in February. Ideally, volunteers make a commitment to the four occurrences of one of those days. However, if this is not possible, one-time assistance is also appreciated. For more information, or to sign up, contact Elizabeth Ferry by January 21st at (603) 643-2667 ext. 3119 or e-mail Elizabeth@coopfoodstore.com.