Challenging economy means that the local food bank needs help for Thanksgiving

YOUNG HELPERS- John Gorham, executive director of Manna, the Conejo Valley Food Bank, helps Blaze Keelmore, 6, of Thousand Oaks plant radish seeds to raise awareness about hunger at Home Depot's recent Family Fun Day in Newbury Park. Blaze's brother, Seth, 8, in the background, is preparing another cup for planting. Hundreds of children participated in activities and learned about local charities and emergency services. In the midst of challenging economic times, Manna, the Conejo Valley Food Bank, needs the community's help to ensure all the valley's residents have a wonderful holiday season.

With an increasing number of clients signing up and limited storage space available, the food bank is requesting monetary donations whenever possible.

Each $20 donation will feed a family of four.

Send a taxdeductible donation to Manna, P.O. Box 1114, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360, or bring it to Manna Mondays through Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m, or Tuesdays and Fridays until 4 p.m., at 3020 Crescent Way, Thousand Oaks.

Call Manna at (805) 4974959 or send an e-mail to MannaConejo@aol.com.