‘Food for Fines’ program returns for holidays

MidPointe Library patrons who have fines on their library cards can substitute food and other high-need items for those fines during MidPointe’s Food For Fines program Nov. 23 through Dec. 7.

The pre-holiday program “allows us to collect non-perishable items with enough time to deliver them to local food banks before the holidays,” said Travis Bautz, MidPointe Director. “For any acceptable donated item, one dollar in fines will be waived from the patron’s library card.”

Donated items can be used for fines only. A patron can have up to $10 waived on his or her record. Fees for lost/damaged materials cannot be waived.

MidPointe launched the popular program in 2011.

“So far we’ve waived over $40,000 in fines and donated more than 45,000 items to those in need,” Bautz said. “This program really makes a difference. We thank the community for making it a success.”

Acceptable donations include: canned goods, boxed mixes, toiletries and paper goods. All items must be in good, non-dented/non-damaged condition. Items past their expiration date are acceptable. However, items labeled “Not For Individual Sale” will not be accepted.

Non-food items for which there is a high need include toothbrushes, shampoo and conditioner, toilet paper and facial tissues, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, shaving gel/cream, disposable razors, cotton balls and Q-Tips, all-purpose cleaners, laundry detergent, fabric softeners, dish detergent, and baby supplies such as wipes, shampoo, powder, lotion.

Organizations that will receive the donated items include the Salvation Army of Middletown, Reach Out Lakota serving the West Chester/Liberty Township area, the EMA Food Pantry serving the Edgewood School District, and the Monroe Church of the Nazarene Food Pantry serving the greater Monroe area.

The Food for Fines program isn’t the only way MidPointe will give back to its community this holiday season. Toys For Tots donation bins will also be available at all library locations.

About the Author