As the economy knocked the stools out from under a good number of people across the nation, food pantries and charity stores, such as St. Vincent de Paul’s pantry and food store in Austin, also witnessed first hand the devastating effects of these trying times. Struggling just to stay open and to feed as many hungry mouths as possible, managers at the St. Vincent de Paul pantry (located at the St. Ignatius Catholic Church) were forced to turn people away empty-handed on Monday because of the current circumstances and lack of supplies. Not only has the number of people needing these services increased, having risen from about 1,500 per month to almost 6,000 in October, but also the economy has expanded the variety of people who seek out charity, growing to include the homeless, the working poor, those working two jobs, and those who just can’t make ends meet.

Starting this Friday, November 6th, Freebirds on South Congress will be hosting a food and clothing drive for St. Vincent de Paul’s food pantry and store in order to alleviate the pressures that the economy is placing on their charity services. As the holidays approach and the cold weather begins to set in, the drive (which will last throughout the ENTIRE weekend) is a perfect time to give and help out those who may hit even harder times this fall/winter season.

The “kick off” party starts at noon on Friday and lasts until 3 PM. With live performances by the alternative rock/country groups Shurman, The Mother Truckers, and Stonehoney, and delicious food from Freebirds, “BIG hearts” will be there to collect the much-needed donations. But don’t forget… the drive is ALL WEEKEND. Specific items that are needed include:

Items Needed:

Food Pantry- Needs canned goods

St. Vincent de Paul Store- Needs used pants, shirts, and NEW socks and underwear for women, men & Children.

Come eat yummy burritos, listen to some great music, and bring as much stuff as you can carry!