Bank Independent distributed $11,342 in cash donations, along with 2,913 items of non-perishable food, from the ninth annual Food Share drive, Feed a Family for $5. These donations created a financial impact of $20,081 for local food banks across north Alabama to support area families in need.

“With the rising cost of daily necessities, more families are needing assistance in our communities than ever,” said Macke Mauldin, president and CEO of BancIndependent. “The charities that distribute the collections work hard in our communities to support those families in need.”

According to Bank Independent, donations have been distributed to local organizations that maintain food banks to fill emergency food needs, including the Committee on Church Cooperation, Franklin County DHR, Food Bank of North Alabama, Limestone County DHR, Neighborhood Christian Center, Sidney’s Safe! Foundation, Manna House in Huntsville, The Meal Barrel Project and the Help Center.

“Together with your help,” Mauldin said, “we are all able to make a positive difference in the lives of those in our communities.”

Hallie Mauldin, Community Engagement Leader at Bank Independent, said the bank has heard from its community partners that they are getting more requests than ever for everyday necessities.

“The organizations we support throughout the year, through our Helping Hands Foundation, provide vital assistance to families across our footprint while Food Share helps address food insecurity in our area,” she said. “Thank you to the community for once again responding to the needs of those in our communities to help make a positive difference. It’s because of your generosity that we are able to give back in this way.”

The Food Share drive is part of Bank Independent’s Helping Hands Foundation, which also includes team member volunteer efforts, donations and sponsorships. Other Share drives include Shelter Share to benefit animal shelters, Toy Share to collect toys for the holidays and School Share drive for school supplies.