News : SHARE program offers food at great prices -- and connections for volunteers

The third Saturday of the month is always circled on Frieda Davis's calender. That's the day she and husband Gene to to pick up their monthly SHARE food order.

“We like the quality of the fresh foods and also the choices of the meat packages. The meat has all been of good quality and of course the cost savings is a big plus!” says Frieda.

SHARE (Self-Help and Resource Exchange) has been providing low-priced, high-quality food to people throughout Iowa and for nearly 20 years.

On Saturday, SHARE participants, through the Benton County Volunteer Program, picked up their December SHARE packages at the First Christian Church.

“I really love their shrimp,” said Chris Harwood of Atkins, a regular SHARE customer.

In addition to helping customers (anyone who eats is eligible to participate) obtain great food at a great price, the second goal of SHARE is to promote community volunteerism.

Those who participate are asked to volunteer two hours every month, in any capacity, either through schools or service organizations or simply by helping a neighbor.

“I think that is another plus to help motivate volunteerism . And it is a great group of people who work together in the SHARE program locally,” says Frieda.”We have gone to the warehouse for bagging day which is fun and a way to meet others from around the state also.”

SHARE is not a government program; there are no income guidelines. Anyone can buy any quantity of food packages any month. Click HERE to see the January 2014 order form. The order form for January are also available in the Benton County Volunteer Program office in Vinton (located in the Sherman building, 303 First Avenue in Vinton), and at the BCVP Belle Plaine office in the Belle Plaine Community Center. The deadline for January orders is Jan. 10. Distribution day is Jan. 25.

To participate, call Dean in the BCVP Vinton Office at 319-472-2830, or the Belle Plaine office at 319-434-6078. Pictured from left are SHARE-Vinton participants Frieda Davis, Gene Davis, Diane Christy, Maureen Haisman and Joan Hyde.