(Host) Retailers say they hope to help Vermont’s food shelves this weekend, when a sales tax holiday is expected to boost traffic at stores around the state.
Many stores will collect food on Saturday and Sunday and then donate it to their local food shelf.
Tasha Wallis of the Vermont Retail Association says store owners thought the food drive would complement the weekend of tax-free shopping.
(Wallis) “In some states, the holiday has had as much success as some of the holiday shopping seasons. And then we thought about the spirit of giving. And really, if Vermonters are saving money while they’re out spending, we’re hoping that they’ll be generous and willing to support their local food shelves, as well.”
(Host) The Retail Association is working with the Vermont Grocers Association and the Vermont Food Bank on the food drive.
Independent stores around the state and several large chains are taking part. Wallis says posters will be placed in stores where nonperishable food can be left.
The Vermont Food Bank says demand for assistance has risen as the economy has slowed.
Of the people served by the Food Bank, 38 percent are choosing between buying food and paying their utilities or fuel bills. And 33 percent are choosing between food and paying rent or their mortgage.