Hundreds of cars drove through the Richmond Hill Downtown Development Authority’s Drive-Thru Food Drive at J. F. Gregory Park on Thursday.

Volunteers from The WAY Station Pantry and Eleos Food Bank were on site to collect over 600 items of food that was donated.

“It’s so nice to see our community wanting to help people who really need help during this time. So many people have lost their jobs or lost their hours and they just can’t make ends meet so I think it’s wonderful that our community can step up to help the rest of the community.” said Eleos Food Bank volunteer Ashley Maxwell.

Leading up to the Drive-Thru Food Drive, the Richmond Hill Development Authority purchased $25 gift cards from local restaurants affected by COVID-19. The purchased gift cards were distributed to those who drove up and donated 10 or more food items.

“As a small business in Richmond Hill, I’ve been so thankful for the support of the community doing their part to keep us going through Covid 19," said Patricia Gunderson, co-owner of Way Station Coffee Co.

"For the City to get on board and support WSCC and many other small businesses by purchasing 40 $25 gift cards lets us know how valued we are by City officials," Gunderson added. "People love Richmond Hill because it’s a small town with a big heart. People care about their community and it was apparent by the outpouring support. It truly was a win- win for everyone.”

The WAY Station Pantry is open every Thursday from 9 a.m. until noon. Call 912-324-6965 or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/thewaystation87/ for more information.

Eleos Food Bank’s drive through food bag distribution services will be on the second, third and fourth Saturday during the month of July. For more information call 912-756-2196.