Feeding the Hungry: Eden Prairie Lions Club's Relentless Efforts to Support PROP Food Shelf

In the heart of Eden Prairie, a dedicated group of volunteers from the local Lions Club is gearing up for their annual food drive, a testament to their unwavering commitment to supporting the PROP Food Shelf and addressing the pressing issue of hunger in the community. As the community rallies behind this noble cause, the Eden Prairie Lions Club's tireless efforts are poised to make a significant impact on the lives of those in need.

Empowering the Community to Fight Hunger

Mobilizing for a Cause

The Eden Prairie Lions Club's annual food drive is a well-orchestrated event that brings the community together in a collective effort to support the PROP Food Shelf. On Saturday, October 5th, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., volunteers will be stationed at two strategic locations – Cub Foods on 8015 Den Road and Lunds & Byerlys on 970 Prairie Center Drive. These dedicated individuals will be handing out flyers that outline the most urgently needed items, encouraging patrons to donate food or cash as they shop.

A Decade of Dedication

Bob Lattimore, a long-standing member of the Lions Club, has been the driving force behind this annual food drive for the past five years. His unwavering commitment to the cause has been instrumental in the event's continued success. Last year, the club's efforts resulted in the collection of 1,718 pounds of food and cash donations from three locations, a testament to the community's generosity and the Lions Club's ability to mobilize support.

Addressing the Growing Need

According to Lattimore, the PROP Food Shelf has seen a significant increase in the number of people seeking assistance, underscoring the pressing need for the community's support. "PROP is very appreciative of our efforts in helping in a small way in donating food to them as they are seeing an increase in the number of people coming in for assistance," Lattimore said. The Eden Prairie Lions Club's food drive aims to address this growing need and provide a lifeline to those struggling with food insecurity in the local community.

A Global Effort

The Eden Prairie Lions Club's food drive is part of a larger initiative spearheaded by Lions Club International (LCI), the world's largest service club organization. Every October and November, LCI conducts a worldwide food service drive, mobilizing its 1.4 million members in 46,178 clubs across 211 countries to address the global issue of hunger. The Eden Prairie Lions Club's efforts are a testament to the organization's commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need, both locally and globally.

Connecting with the Community

The Eden Prairie Lions Club's food drive is more than just a collection of donations; it's an opportunity to engage with the community and raise awareness about the issue of hunger. "We try to connect with the people as to the serious issue with hunger in EP and surrounding communities, and so many people are very receptive to our efforts," Lattimore said. By fostering this connection, the Lions Club hopes to inspire greater participation and a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those in need.

A Lasting Impact

As the Eden Prairie Lions Club prepares for this year's food drive, the anticipation and excitement within the community are palpable. The club's unwavering dedication to supporting the PROP Food Shelf has not only provided tangible assistance to those in need but has also inspired a sense of community spirit and a shared commitment to making a difference. The impact of the Lions Club's efforts will be felt long after the donations are delivered, as the PROP Food Shelf continues to serve as a vital resource for those facing food insecurity in the Eden Prairie area.