Residents of Tangipahoa Parish have an opportunity to help their neighbors combat food insecurity later this month during a specialized collection event. Organized as part of the Health Equity Summit, North Oaks Health is coordinating a massive food drive designed to stock the shelves of several critical local organizations that serve vulnerable populations throughout the region.
The supply drop off will take place on October 23 between 8:30 a.m. and noon at the North Oaks Diagnostic Center in Hammond. Donations can be brought directly to the E. Brent Dufreche Conference Center, where volunteers will be stationed to receive contributions intended for various charitable partners including Our Daily Bread, The Hope Closet, and the Tangipahoa Parish School System.
Because each partner organization serves a specific demographic, there are varying needs across the board. Those looking to support infants and toddlers should consider donating baby food and formula for Restoration House, while those wanting to provide pantry staples might opt for brown rice or low sodium canned vegetables for The Hope Closet. Other high demand items include granola bars, oatmeal pouches, packaged tuna, and ready to eat chicken pouches for groups like SLU Roomie’s Pride Pantry and North Oaks Health Feeding Our Own.
While certain items are specifically requested to meet current shortages, organizers emphasize that all donations will be accepted and welcomed. For those unable to make it during the morning window on Wednesday, a designated drop off box will remain available within the North Oaks Diagnostic Center to ensure every member of the community has a chance to contribute to these essential health equity efforts.
