Merchants Bank kicked off its 24th Annual "Ten Days of Giving" food drive Friday as it prepares to go over the two million pound mark in the drive's long history.
             
With the food and cash donations going to the Winona County Foodshelves, and a food bank in, St. Charles. bank president Rod Nelson said it's all about real people who have a real need.  Winona Volunteer Services Executive Director, Sandra Burke, said the need for the foodshelves continues to be great averaging over 950 households a month this year seeking assistance.  Burke says donations provide much more than just food.

Non-perishable food and cash donations can be dropped off at any Merchants Bank location and at Volunteer Services. More than 130 businesses, and over 30 schools are also participating. In addition, drop barrels are located in public places throughout the community.