Look: The big winter blast won’t come in until the afternoon – come and help deliver some of the 556 Sunshine Division food boxes that need to get out …
Last year, there were plenty of volunteer drivers – this year – who knows? Just show up Saturday morning, December 20 and help! EastPDXnews file photo
Story and file photos by David F. Ashton
It’s a simple problem: Food boxes that provide needy families in outer East Portland are stacked up in the East Precinct garage; across the street from Floyd Light Middle School in Gateway. With the arrival of winter weather conditions, many people will stay home.
The Portland Police Bureau’s Sunshine Division depends on volunteers to deliver 556 boxes of food — each contains a complete dinner, including meat, bread and vegetables.
“If you have the appropriate vehicle to drive in inclement weather,” says Portland Police Bureau’s Officer Phil Kent of the Sunshine Division, “families across outer East Portland will sincerely appreciate the Christmas food box you’ll deliver.”
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadets load a truck with food boxes to be delivered to needy families in the area. EastPDXnews file photo
If few volunteer drivers show up, Kent says, those who come will be asked to deliver more boxes. “Our Cadets and street officers will pitch in as well. We’re hoping for a good turnout. No matter what, we will get the boxes delivered.”
Reservations are NOT required
Just show up at 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 20 at East Precinct, 737 SE 106th Ave., just south of SE Washington St. (across from Floyd Light Middle School and the East Portland Community Center).
Cue up in the community center parking lot – and the East Precinct Cadets will direct you into the parking structure and load your vehicle. You’ll be given a clear map showing where deliveries should be made.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News