Second Harvest Inc., a food rescue and distribution program, holds a food distribution on the third Saturday of each month at the Greene County High School. Greene County has 19.9 percent of its population living below the poverty threshold, which compares to 16.9 percent for Putnam and 15.5 percent for Morgan. The Second Harvest Food Distribution is focused on these families and individuals who are “food insecure” — meaning they lack access at times to enough food for an active, healthy life.

Preparation for the third Saturday distribution day starts well in advance of the actual date. Second Harvest president, Lou Pack and vice president, Linda Maples meet at least one week in advance to review and select appropriate food items from those available at Golden Harvest in Augusta. Food selections are made accordingly to availability and affordability. After Golden Harvest approves the order, arrangements are made to have the food transported from Augusta to Greensboro. Bob Griffin, Augusta Transportation, has most graciously provided a semi truck to pick up the food and deliver to Greene County High School (GCHS). This transportation has been provided since October, 2010 with only a minimal charge of $300 for gas. To ensure we maximize the seasonal fresh produce in our area, Maples then works with local farmers and produce markets such as Bruce Lovin, owner of Lovin Farms and Ripe Things Market, both in Greensboro, to identify affordable and fresh produce to add to the distribution. Second Harvest also picks up previously prepared foods that individuals have placed at the freezer housed at Classic Wines in Greensboro. Additionally bread and pastries are rescued from Publix on distribution day.

When the food arrives at GCHS, Mr. Tommy and his maintenance staff assist with the offloading and proper storage of the food. In July this experience proved quite a challenge as the GCHS forklift hydraulics broke as the first pallet of food was off loaded. Fortunately for all Bruce Lovin was also on site delivering produce and saved the day by having the hay baler brought from his farm. He and his crew remained on site for offloading more than 20,000 pounds of food and assisting Mr. Tommy and his  team with the staging of the food for storage.

Distribution day arrives and so do 60 or more volunteers. Some volunteers arrive as early as 7:30 a.m. to prepare the set up of the area — to include staging the food, grocery carts, and registration area. While the actual distribution to those in need does not start until 10 a.m., volunteers typically start the registration process by 8:45 a.m. Volunteers come from  area residents, Rotarians, church members, students, some who are also recipients and Penfield Christian Center.   Oconee Regional Humane Society volunteers, Barbara Janzen and Christine Ellison bring packaged cat and dog food for distribution.

 Some volunteers make it a family affair. At the July event, Rotarian Lacie Groeninger, her husband Paul,  John and Tammy Smith, her mom and dad, and her grandmother, Camie “Mimi” Hall.  To make it even more special Camie was also celebrating her 83rd  birthday and was most joyful she could help others on her special day.

The distribution day ends at noon — volunteers are tired and hunger but most grateful  that they been blessed to offer some help to those in need.

Second Harvest, Inc. is a food rescue and distribution program sponsored by the Rotary Club of Greene and Putnam Counties. Anyone can contribute to Second Harvest-by volunteering, providing financial support or bringing leftovers in plastic containers or baggie to Classic Wines.