By Mike Finney

HARRINGTON — A little bit of food for those in need can save fairgoers a lot of green during the 11th annual “Food Lion Feeds Hunger Relief Day” at the Delaware State Fair on Monday.

Food Lion, the Food Bank of Delaware and the Delaware State Fair recently announced the food donation program would return during this year’s fair.
Fair attendees who bring five Food Lion brand canned or boxed good donations will receive free gate admission to the Delaware State Fair from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday.

“This is a great way to enjoy a day at the fair for free,” said Kim Turner, communications director for the Food Bank of Delaware. “Fair admission is $10 for those over 13 years of age — we know that five Food Lion brand food items cost significantly less, so it’s a win-win for fairgoers and the Food Bank of Delaware.

“We can ensure that Delawareans in need have access to food, and community members can enjoy a fun day at the fair.”

Fair gate admission for youth, ages 6 to 12, is $5.50 while children 5 and under may enter for free.

Donations received through this year’s Hunger Relief Day will assist families in Kent and Sussex counties struggling to put food on the table.

More than 47,000 residents of Kent and Sussex are considered food insecure, meaning their access to adequate food is limited by a lack of money and other resources at times during the year.

The Food Bank of Delaware said that Hunger Relief Day at the fair is one of its most popular food drive initiatives.

Since the start of what has become an annual event, more than 180,000 pounds of food have been collected for the food bank and Delawareans in need.

“High food and fuel costs are impacting all of us, but especially our lower income neighbors,” said Cathy Kanefsky, Food Bank of Delaware’s president and CEO. “We are grateful for Food Lion and the Delaware State Fair’s continued support.

“This annual event comes at a critical time of year when donations are traditionally down. The food that is donated on Hunger Relief Day helps ensure that our neighbors most in need have access to food to feed their families.

“This day of giving is always a highlight for us at the Food Bank of Delaware as we get to witness firsthand the generosity of Delawareans.”

Food Lion officials say they are proud to be part of such a popular program.

“We are excited to support this effort in the towns and cities we serve,” said Kevin Durkee, manager of Food Lion Feeds. “The food drive is a meaningful way for families and fairgoers to have access to the fair while aiding our neighbors and making a difference in our communities.”

Volunteers from Food Lion and the Food Bank of Delaware will accept donations at all gates. No items stored in glass will be accepted.

Some of the Food Bank of Delaware’s most-needed items include canned fruits, canned vegetables, canned soups, tuna fish, peanut butter, cereal and pasta.

“The board of directors and staff at the Delaware State Fair are committed to help make a difference in our community and are excited to partner with Food Lion and the Food Bank of Delaware,” said Danny Aguilar, assistant general manager for the Delaware State Fair.

“Food Lion Hunger Relief Day is a highlight of the 10 days of the fair as we celebrate our community members coming together to help Delaware families in need.”

For more information about the fair, visit delawarestatefair.com.