Ballinger Neighborhood Association collects 700 pounds of food for Shoreline food bank

Joyce Lingerfelt and Patty Dooley in front of the Ballinger Thriftway

The Ballinger Neighborhood Association (BALNA), inspired by stories of need in Shoreline, conducted a food drive in December that brought in 700 pounds of food and $240 in donations.

The food and money were turned over to Shoreline Hopelink, which runs the local food bank.

"We contacted the manager of the Ballinger Thriftway," explained Joyce Lingerfelt, Chair of the Association. "He has been very supportive of the neighborhood and readily agreed to help."

Hopelink Manager Leslie Brooks provided lists of canned and packaged goods, and bins. BALNA volunteers Joyce Lingerfelt, Patty Dooley, Garry Lingerfelt,and Tom Jacques braved the cold to stand in front of the grocery store from 9 am to 3 pm, handing out the lists to Thriftway shoppers and asking them to include a couple of items in their shopping to donate to the food bank.

"People were generous and supportive," said Patty Dooley, "It's a true story of the community pulling together."

Hopelink is located in the Aurora Square (Sears) shopping center, next to Marshall's. They provide social services as well as food, all at the same location.