Kansas City Regional Association of REALTORS® and Heartland Multiple Listing Service are teaming up with Harvesters – The Community Food Network, and will sponsor a food and fund drive from Monday, Nov. 30 through Wednesday, Dec. 23.

Members are encouraged to participate in the drive and help Harvesters’ network feed those in need throughout Kansas City.

It’s sometimes difficult to believe that hunger exists here. Most people think of hunger in terms of famine and mass starvation – terrible tragedies, but not something that affects people every day in our own community. The reality is that there ARE hungry people in Kansas City. Harvesters’ agencies provide assistance to nearly 60,000 people every week. And half of those are children and the elderly.

A contribution from Nov. 30 – Dec. 23 means much needed help, and hope, will be available to those who need it. Examples of most-needed food items are canned vegetables, canned fruit, canned meats (such as tuna), peanut butter, jelly, canned soup, cereal and boxed meals (like Hamburger Helper). Most-needed household supplies and personal care items are soap, deodorant, shampoo and toilet paper. We’ll also be accepting financial contributions – for every $1 donated, Harvesters can provide five meals.

We’re also collecting pet food for our furry friends in need. Harvesters will distribute the pet food to area food pantries. 

What’s in it for you? In addition to lending a helping hand during the holiday season, members making a donation can drop their business card into a drawing for a $25 credit to use in 2010 toward items in the store and KCRAR or HMLS fees. (Limit one business card per day.) At the end of the drive, we’ll draw three business cards and notify the winners.

As you head to our offices for a CE class or meeting, be sure to grab a few items to show your support. Your generosity makes a difference!

For more information about Harvesters, visit www.harvesters.org/.