Winona, Minn.-based Merchants Bank has started its annual 10 Days of Giving food drive.
The drive lasts through Dec. 10 and benefits food shelf programs operated by Winona Volunteer Services. Co-Chairs Jennifer Welch and Dave Pierret are leading campaign efforts this year.
The drive started with a ceremonial gift from second graders Everly Wagner and Anastasia Welch and a $500 donation from Engav’s Decorating Center. Last year, the 10 Days of Giving Campaign collected 265,529 pounds of food. More than 4 million pounds of food have been collected through the first 32 years of the program. Two pounds of food are calculated for each dollar, according to Merchants Bank.
“It’s an honor to lead this effort year after year. We are so grateful to the Winona community for their generosity and hope that you’ll join us again in support of this worthy cause. It is so inspiring to see the involvement from schools and local businesses as well, given the continued need in our community,” said Merchants Bank Southern Regional President Andrew Guzzo.