RUSK — More than a dozen more businesses and organizations from throughout Cherokee County have joined a local effort to help feed the hungry.

People Helping People, a grocery discount program in Jacksonville, launched in late October, and now has 73 participating member groups, according to program officials.

Ten percent of all grocery sales would be set aside to provide food for families recommended by the churches and businesses taking part in the program. The card can be used for purchases at Super Gallo, located in Suite 200 at 1009 S. Jackson, except for alcohol, tobacco or WIC program purchases.

The program runs through Dec. 20. Food purchased with raised funds will be distributed Dec. 22 to families recommended by the groups and businesses utilizing the program.

While more than 2,500 discount cards have been distributed, usage has been slow, said store manager Tony Wilburn, who reminded people to use their cards to help raise funds.

In the meantime, youths from People's Church are creating handmade Christmas cards for the food baskets.

“We are grateful this program has inspired the youth to get involved with helping those less fortunate,” said store employee Bonnie Barringer. “We also have had people asking if they could make cash donations, (which they can do) at the store or any participating organization.”

In addition, yard signs are available to homes and business as a show of support for the program and the community, she said.

Joining the effort during the past week are businesses, churches and organizations, including: Botas El Tejano, Central Baptist – Jacksonville, Cherokee County Public Health, Church of God of the Prophecy, Color Spot Nurseries, Fashion 4U, Fork on the Road, Garsking Garage, Heath & Heath, Home & Properties, Hong Kong Buffet, Lil Cesar's Auto Restoration & Upholstery, Mendoza Restaurant, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church – New Summerfield, Paaco Automotive, Sacred Heart of Jesus Church – Rusk, Sammy L. Smith D.C., Stage Stores, Templo Fuente de Vida,Texas National Bank and Vicky's.

For more information about the People Helping People, contact Wilburn 903-372-1346 or by email, tonysg@suddenlinkmail.com. Information is also available at Super Gallo Market, 903-589-7654.