HIV/AIDS Ministries

 

 

Sarasota County--A dedicated group of volunteers worked over 4,000 hours last year at two food pantries in Sarasota and Venice for the HIV/AIDS Ministries of Catholic Charities. A total of 118,435 pounds of food was distributed during that time to clients of Bethesda House, Joseph's Place and Casa San Jose.

 

"Our volunteers are such an important part of our program," said Sandy Gallagher, Program Director for HIV/AIDS Ministries of Catholic Charities. "We could not serve our clients without their support."

 

The number of people requesting food almost doubled in 2008. Food stocks are typically gone two days after arrival.  "We have a great need for nutritional food," said Gallagher. "Our client population is increasing and our food budget isn't able to keep up with the increase." Gallagher said the program received 49 new clients just in the last three months.

 

Food items such as peanut butter, canned meats, and pasta are especially needed. The food pantries also need canned soups, vegetables, fruits, juices, and dry goods such as rice, sugar, and macaroni and cheese. Also on the wish list for the HIV/AIDS Ministries program is a slightly used minivan to transport clients who are sick or homebound to get food or to doctor's appointments. The program also needs comfortable outdoor furniture as space is restricted at Bethesda House and the program plans to offer services under a tent in the backyard.

 

For more information or if you are interested in volunteering, or donating food or money to the HIV/AIDS Ministries of Catholic Charities, please call 941-366-1886.

Photo: Volunteers of the HIV/AIDS Ministries of Catholic Charities were recognized recently at an appreciation luncheon.