Many food shelves in Farmington are empty and it's up to the entire community to do something about it.

You can do your part Saturday.

The Economic Council Helping Others Food Bank, also known as ECHO Inc., is conducting the single-largest food drive nationwide in cooperation with the U.S. Postal Service.

All you have to do is put a few nonperishable food items at your mailbox and your local carrier will to do the work to deliver the goods where they need to go.

It's a simple act that can help families in complicated situations.

Some families or individuals have to choose between food or prescriptions, food or fuel, food or health care.

It's a shame that people in this great country have to make those kinds of choices.

But here's the reality:

  • Local emergency food requests have spiked 16 percent this year, paralleling the rise in food and fuel prices across the nation.

  • There are 26,000 people living in poverty in San Juan County.

  • Nearly 55 percent of school-age children live in poverty in our county.

    Times are hard for many Four Corners families and today's economic situation only adds to the area's needs.

    It's up to those of us who are fortunate enough to have food on our shelves every week to step up and help a neighbor.

    Vicky Metheny food programs director for the local ECHO Inc., said people would be surprised to find out who among their neighbors need help.

    It's tough times out there, and many people also don't realize that the summer months are when food banks have their greatest need. Those regular donors and volunteers take vacations and food banks and charities have to look elsewhere.

    You can be the one to step in.

    So put a few items out at your mailbox Saturday. Children are hungry and parents need help taking care of their families.

    Do your part. It's the right thing to do.