SpringfieldNewsSun.com

The Springfield branch of the Salvation Army is running so low on food donations that at least 10 families were turned away every day this week, officials said Thursday.

The problem was discovered Tuesday, prompting an emergency food drive this weekend to sustain the organization until a pre-holiday effort begins in November, said Maj. James Gingrich of Salvation Army.

"We're not asking for money, we're asking for food," he added.

Barrels for donations will be set up at Springfield's two Wal-Mart locations, 2100 N. Bechtle Ave. and 200 S. Tuttle Road, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

People can also drop off food items at the Salvation Army, 15 S. Plum St., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

This is the second time since Gingrich joined the Salvation Army 14 years ago that they've needed an emergency food drive, he said.

He points to a decrease in food drives that benefit the Salvation Army as a cause for the shortage. The organization can't afford to buy food, he said.

"The funds we don't have to spend on food allows us to provide funds" to assistant clients with things like bills and rent, Gingrich said.

Rising gas prices and increasing electric bills due to the recent heat wave have ripple effects on people who are living at the poverty level, he explained.

"These are not people waiting on a handout," Gingrich said. "These people do have jobs...and they need to make ends meet."

In the past, the community has responded to the Salvation Army's needs, he said.

"When people find out there's a legitimate need, they are quick to help out," he said.

For more information, contact the Salvation Army at (937)322-3434.

Contact this writer at 937-328-0374 or boutten@coxohio.com.