Bread for myself is a material question. Bread for my neighbor is a spiritual one."
- Nikolai Berdyaev

For most of us, summer is the time for family gatherings, holiday celebrations and cookouts.
However, as we prepare for our Independence Day parties, we shouldn't lose sight of a growing group of people who won't be participating.

For the unemployed and homeless in our community, the Fourth of July often isn't the time to celebrate, but rather another reminder of what they don't have.

As you make your food purchases, pick up some extra canned goods, toiletries and other non-perishable items to take to the Community Food Pantry.

Many of those in need don't ask for anything special and depend on the simple staples at the food pantry to supplement their families' needs.
Many people are hurting, while others are in the midst of the hustle and bustle the summer calendar brings, and that has left the food pantry cupboards bare.

No one should be too busy to drop off a couple of cans of food, some soap and shampoo or toilet paper. Monetary donations are also welcomed. Take a minute to help your fellow man by helping a trusted, longstanding program that is run by dedicated volunteers.

The food pantry is located at 7125 Turner Lake Circle in Covington; the pantry's phone number is (770) 784-0037. Monetary donations can be given to First Presbyterian Church, 1169 Clark Street, Covington.

You could also start a food drive at your office or through your church.

The food pantry belongs to the community, which has shown time and again that it is willing to rally to the cause.

One of the best gifts you can give to honor your country is help for those less fortunate than you; let's make sure our neighbors don't go hungry this summer.