What could be better than helping others and paying off fines at the same time?
Thanks to an idea by Barbara O’Neil at Quitman Public Library, the East Mississippi Regional Library System has made it possible to pay off overdue fines and help the community at the same time. They are collecting nonperishable food items, and they are making sure that everything collected stays local.
“When I first asked Matt if we could do the Food for Fines where they forgive overdues, I told them I wanted to do it where the food stayed in Clarke County. I didn’t want to partner with anybody that would send the food out of Clarke County,” explained Barbara. “I contacted the Baptist Association over here and Bro. Bob said he’d love if we did it. The food comes in here, and then it goes to the Baptist Center to be used for anyone coming there asking for assistance. We’re forgiving overdue fines, so people can bring in a nonperishable item for each dollar they owe. If somebody doesn’t have a fine, we would still love for them to bring in a nonperishable.”
The first year, it was only done at the library, but since then, it has branched out and has more boxes in the community. This is the fifth year the program is in place, and it has expanded into other counties as well.
“This year, our Jasper County libraries wanted to participate too and partner with their Baptist Association,” continued Barbara. “We have food being collected in all of our libraries until December 21.”
Anyone participating and bringing food to the Quitman Public Library should know that the Blessing Box outside is different from the Food for Fines. The Blessing Box is through the SWAT program at the school. The box for Food for Fines is located inside the library.
A box to donate food to is located at each library location and at each of the grocery stores in Quitman.
The following are suggested items to donate:
• Boxed meals
• Canned soup
• Canned meat, fruit, or vegetables
• Peanut butter
• Cereal
• Pasta
