BRIDGEPORT, W.Va (WDTV) – Connecting Link is a nonprofit organization that helps residents in north central West Virginia with a variety of life support in an immediate crisis. The organization prides itself on being both effective and efficient for those in need, offering various ways to receive assistance. In Palatine Park later this week, the organization will be hosting a mobile food drive through the Mountaineer Food Bank. This is a consistent project by Connecting Link and representatives like Lois Martin, as they aim to support local families struggling with the cost of everyday necessities.

“With each of our Mountaineer Food Bank mobile drive-ins, we can provide food to about 350 families. This is simply helping to offset the inflation that we have experienced and are currently experiencing. So that we don’t have people who don’t have enough to eat.”

Regardless of the host, food collections play an important role in the lives of many people in the local community by ensuring that everyone has access to a balanced meal.

“Usually there’s everything from the four food groups, some kind of meat. Canned goods, whether it’s vegetables or fruit. There’s usually a lot of fresh produce being shipped this time of year. Food insecurity is a big issue right now because of food prices. I mean, grocery shopping for myself is crazy. I couldn’t imagine having to feed a family.”

Connecting Link has several locations throughout north central West Virginia, but this offering is specifically for Marion County residents who want to provide as many meals as possible.

“The people of Marion County, that is Mon County, have their own food bank, Harrison County has theirs. The Mountaineer Food Bank operates separately in 48 of the 55 counties. Everyone needs to bring a pen so they can sign the forms and be patient. Get in line and the distribution starts at eleven.”

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