Feed Union County 2020 initiative kicked off on Monday

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – While many are adjusting to staying home, healthcare workers are working overtime to help keep everyone in the community safe. To show their appreciation, several organizations came together to form the Feed Union County 2020 initiative for those caring for the sick in Union County and for individuals in need.

The first soup drive was held on Monday, March 30 from 11:30 a.m. until the food ran out at Nani’s Restaurant. Marife Arrazcaeta, the owner of Nani’s, said she intends to continue the soup drive every Monday for individuals in need and for all first responders, elderly, families, nurses, and doctors.

Arrazcaeta spearheaded the effort inspired by Chef Jose Andres’ feed the hunger movement and began reaching out to other restaurants and food services in the community. For the first week, North Georgia Technical College Culinary Program donated vegetables, cream, and potatoes, and Foodland donated chicken.

“We are just trying to stay ahead of what is coming.  We have been lucky we don’t a case jet. We will feed those who need it,” stated Arrazcaeta. “We are a strong tight community, and we are all in this together.”

Donations both monetary and food are welcomed and needed to continue the effort. Any restaurant interested in donating their inventory should contact Arrazcaeta at 706.745.0100. If someone would like to donate money to the effort, a fund is set up at BANK OZK under the name, “Feed Union County 2020.” The bank accepts cash, checks directly at the drive-thru window or please send donations to 51 D Earnest street Blairsville, Ga 30512.

Nani’s will be open to the public for to-go orders Tuesday to Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Here’s a list of resources available for those in need in Union County.

Also, if anyone would like a pick-me-up while working, teaching, or just stuck at home, check out Arrazcaeta’s update video’s on Nani’s Facebook page.

Editor’s note: Since receiving this quote, a positive COVID-19 case is being treated at Union General Hospital. The individual is a Towns County Resident.