Louisiania Food Banks Seek Donations

The Louisiana Department of Social Services is encouraging Louisianians to donate canned and non-perishable food items to area food banks, who will help distribute the items to fishermen, families and others who find themselves in need.

"For many Louisiana citizens who earn their living from the Gulf and coastal waters, this tragedy comes at the worst time," said DSS Secretary Kristy Nichols. "Many fishermen, shrimpers and oystermen earn the bulk of their incomes during short seasons of the year and are unable to work because of the current situation."

To quickly respond to the needs of individuals and families along the coastline, DSS is partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana to collect and distribute goods to those in need. Second Harvest accepts donations of canned and non-perishable food at 700 Edwards Avenue in New Orleans.

Suggested food donations include:

    * peanut butter
    * soups / stews
    * canned fruits / vegetables
    * canned meats (chicken, beef, ham)
    * tuna fish
    * chili
    * cereal
    * hot cereals (grits, oatmeal)
    * beans
    * juice
    * rice
    * pasta
    * shelf stable milk

Additionally, Second Harvest accepts monetary donations. You can give securely on the Second Harvest website, no-hunger.org, by phone at (504) 729-2858, or by mail at Second Harvest Food Bank, Greater New Orleans & Acadiana, 700 Edwards Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70123.

Annually, Second Harvest feeds approximately 262,800 people across 23 south Louisiana parishes.

For more on the BP oil spill, the Gulf of Mexico disaster and ways to help, visit this BP Horizon Deepwater Oil Spill page.