Assisting Emergency Aid

The USDA Service Center collected 164 pounds of canned good items this season to donate to the Emergency Aid Center for United Way of South Louisiana located in Franklin. Local officials say they are thankful for the tremendous participation this year, including employees of the St. Mary Parish Courthouse, the biggest canned good contributors. Statewide, the USDA has collected over 3,515 pounds of canned food items during the food drive to help local citizens in times of need. From left are Patra Ghergich, St. Mary Parish NRCS;  Patti Ibert, center director; and Sophe Probst and Juanita Clements, St. Mary Soil and Water Conservation District.