Urban Active Holds Food Drive To Help Feed Less Fortunate This Thanksgiving

Nov. 14, 2011 - PRLog -- The U.S. is one of the richest nations in the world, but also faces a fast growing poverty and hunger crisis. According to recent statistics from Feedingamerica.org, one in six people lives with “food insecurity,” which means they don’t always know where they will find their next meal. This far-reaching problem not only affects adults, but also approximately 17.2 million of children under 18, says the United States Department of Agriculture.

Urban Active is partnering with Local Food Banks in their communities, to help feed those less fortunate this Thanksgiving.

Local residents who donate 5 non-perishable food items starting today thru November 23rd will not only help feed an under-privileged family, but also receive either a 14 Day Free Work-Out Pass (for non-members) or a Free Personal Training Session, one free upgrade or tan, one small smoothie or a 14 day buddy pass (for members) as a thank you for their contribution.

MSN recently reported that the Top 10 Items that Food Banks need most:

•   Proteins. Canned meats such as tuna, chicken or fish are high in protein and low in saturated fat. Peanut butter is rich in protein and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated oils, the "good fats." These are among the most expensive foods -- too expensive for food banks to buy large quantities.
•   Soups and stews. They are filling, particularly the "chunky" soups, and contain liquid for hydration. In addition, soups can be filled with protein and vegetables.
•   Rice and pasta. "They're really staples," Nowak says. In addition, grain-based foods, such as pasta, are a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrates.
•   Cereal, including oatmeal. Breakfast cereals can be an additional source of protein, and most cereals today include a variety of vitamins and minerals.
•   Canned vegetables, including tomatoes and tomato sauce. Studies indicate that canned vegetables have about the same nutritional value as fresh vegetables.
•   Canned or dried beans and peas. A staple of diets as early as 6700 B.C., beans are a low-fat source of protein and fiber.
•   Canned fruits. Only a small amount of vitamin C is lost in the canning process, making these a healthy choice.
•   Fruit juice (canned, plastic or boxed). Make sure it's 100% juice.
•   Prepared box mixes such as macaroni and cheese or Hamburger Helper.
•   Shelf-stable milk. This includes dehydrated milk, canned evaporated milk and instant breakfasts.

Urban Active’s Thanksgiving Food Drive will be held at all their 36 locations in 7 states (Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Georgia) Please visit www.urbanactive.com for a location nearest you.