One meal at the fundraiser will purchase approximately 40 pounds of food, pictured.

While clients in need of food continue to steam into Cullman Caring for Kids for assistance, the Red Door Cafe is preparing a tasty fundraiser to help replenish the shelves.

From 8 a.m. until noon on Aug. 3, the Red Door will be offering pancakes packed with fresh blueberries, sausage, orange juice, coffee, soft drinks or iced tea for $8, with proceeds going to the food bank at Cullman Caring for Kids.

“Just the cost of that one meal can purchase about 40 pounds of food to give to a family in need in our community,” McCartney said. “We understand the need for the food bank continues to grow and Cullman Caring for Kids has helped thousands of Cullman County residents through the year. At the Red Door, we want to join with our customers in helping our neighbors.”

Cullman Caring for Kids Director Javon Daniel has reported in the last few years that summer demand for food has been growing. He attributes a lot of the growing demand to more grandparents on fixed income having to raise their grandchildren because family conditions.

“We still see a lot of single parents needing assistance, but the number of grandparents trying to raise kids is really growing. I know of one grandmother who brings in $1170 per month and pays utilities and medicines and tries to have enough groceries while raising two grandchildren. That’s what we are seeing so much.”

Daniel said several individuals, businesses and churches have been bringing additional supplies for the food bank, but those are issued quickly to families.

“I know Temple Baptist and Premier Bank and others have responded after we asked for additional donations, and that’s been a great help,” Daniel said. “But last month we saw 575 families, representing more than 1,100 individuals. We’re on track before this month ends to have more than 550 families. June through August are now some of our busiest months, and that’s come along in the last few years.”

A major food drive in October and November, Cares & Shares, is a 10-year partnership between The Times and Cullman Caring for Kids and will continue this year.

In the meantime, Daniel said cash donations or canned and other non-perishable food items are needed.

“Some of the families will get some relief when schools are back in session because or free and reduced breakfasts and lunches for children,” Daniel said. “But the need will remain. We have one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, but some families, because of problems or difficulties, are suffering and simply need assistance. That’s part of our mission and this community is already great to respond generously when others are in need.”

The Red Door is located at 324 Fourth Ave, SE, next door to The Times. Anyone needing additional information about the event at the cafe may call 256-734-0599.

For information about Cullman Caring for Kids and its program to promote the safety and welfare of area children, call 256-739-1111.

Pancake fundraiser

Saturday, Aug. 3, 8 a.m.-noon

Red Door Cafe

Benefits Cullman Caring for Kids food bank

Cost: $8 per plate