Help local food pantries restock

Donations pour in to local hunger charities before the holidays, but by the start of the new year, the shelves often sit empty.

Hendrick Auto Group Charleston, which represents nine automotive dealerships, has launched a Facebook campaign to help restock food pantries. The goal of “Charleston Drive for Hunger” is to raise $8,000 for The Lowcountry Food Bank and East Cooper Community Outreach.

The campaign begins today and runs through Jan. 11. People can participate by clicking “Like” on the Charleston Drive page on Facebook. Hendrick will donate $1 each time someone clicks “Like.”

Brad Davis, executive general manager of Rick Hendrick Imports, said poverty and hunger continue year-round, but January marks the start of “the lull time” for desperately needed donations at local charities.

“They just hit bottom at the beginning of the year,” Davis said.

Lowcountry Food Bank spokeswoman Miriam Coombes said the campaign is “a great way to kick off the new year.” And it sets an example for the community, she said.

Many local residents are in need of such services as they struggle with hunger in the lingering economic downturn. A report from the U.S. Conference of Mayors released earlier this month found Charleston among the nation’s cities that had an increase in hunger and homelessness in the last year.

The nine dealerships decided to work together this year to do something that would benefit the community, Davis said. But they are asking for something from people who sign on to the Facebook campaign. People who click “Like” also must commit to either doing some volunteer work in the community this year or to practicing safe driving habits, including not texting while driving.

Davis said he’s confident his group will reach its fundraising goal. Facebook is wide-reaching, he said, especially among young people. And The Lowcountry Food Bank and East Cooper Community Outreach will spread the word.

Reach Diane Knich at 937-5491.