It's a lot less Spooky to be Hungry in McDuffie County this year since local residents gave a lot more food to the cause.
The McDuffie County effort for the Spooky to be Hungry food drive was a huge success and collected 3,170 pounds of canned goods -- six times the amount donated a year ago -- and $620, said Sheilah Johnson, who spearheaded the campaign for the second year.
"It was phenomenal," said Mrs. Johnson.
McDuffie County's donations will be added to others from around the CSRA and given to the Golden Harvest Food Bank which serves the Augusta area, including Thomson.
Now in its 10th year, the Spooky drive has attracted national attention with its emphasis on fighting hunger and strengthening communities through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers doing their small piece. The drive traditionally occurs around Halloween.
Last year, the first time McDuffie County participated, residents contributed 480 pounds of canned goods and $100 in donations. This year Mrs. Johnson arranged a number of drop off points around the area, and had support from the schools.
"We were thrilled," said Luci Linnenkohl who directs the 21st Century after school program which participated in the drive.
She noted that with the increased buying power of the Golden Harvest Food Bank, every dollar in donations can purchase $7 worth of groceries.
In 2003 across seven counties in the CSRA, the drive collected 61,600 pounds of food and $31,600 in donations, said Evelyn Browne, founder.
