MARQUETTE — When summer arrives, the number of community food drives declines; however, the need does not. That’s why Thrivent Member Network is partnering with The Salvation Army to collect food for those in need in the community through their event, Thrivent Cans Hunger.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, residents may assist the Northbound Group — Marquette’s chapter of the Thrivent Member Network — in reaching their goal of stocking the Salvation Army’s food pantry shelves by donating canned and packaged foods.

Of the continuing need for food assistance in the community, Captain Winters of The Salvation Army said, “Food insecurity is a very real situation. Many in our community have had a very tough year, especially with the pandemic. Stimulus funds have been helpful, but are not sustainable for the long run. Many of those in need are children and young adults. We need to continue to work to support those in need in our community through the generous donations to our local food pantries.”

According to its website, Thrivent’s Membership Network is a “fraternal benefits society, which is a not-for-profit organization owned by its membership.” The goal: to provide “mutual benefits” between clients and communities in which they live, “creating impact, and spreading generosity.”

As part of this event, Northbound will be spreading generosity by donating $3 for every non-perishable food item donated, up to $3,000.

The event will take place at 100 N. Third St. in Marquette, at the Northbound Group’s location. Thanks to Digs’ participation, donators may receive a free Digs Dog from Digs City Beach, right behind Thrivent.

With events like these, the Thrivent Member Network, according to the event’s release, allows members to “join their friends and family and local community to participate in Thrivent’s generosity programs and regional initiatives projects to make a positive difference locally.”

Captain Winters and The Salvation Army certainly welcome the community support.

He said, “We at The Salvation Army are very grateful to our community partners for holding can drives and to the people of Marquette County for your generous support of our mission to help the neediest people in the county. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your donations and support.”

A similar event will held in Escanaba from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 11 as well. For that event — held by the Escanaba Salvation Army and Thrivent — community members may donate at Elmer’s County Market, where Northbound Group will also donate up to $3,000 ($3 per non-perishable item) and donators may receive a free brat for their donations.

Both locations are most in need of the following canned items: meat, fruit, pastas, soup and stew.