Greater Lansing MEA members and staff are collecting nonperishable food and toiletries to help school employees dealing with delays and cuts to SNAP food benefits due to the federal government shutdown.

“Teachers and school support staff in the Greater Lansing community are extremely concerned about the government shutdown and how it’s harming everyday families, and this is a way for us as MEA members to help our fellow union members in need,” said Chuck Alberts, a Lansing teacher, president of the Lansing Schools Education Association and chair of the MEA Region 8-ABF Coordinating Council.

“Every little bit helps, and together we can make this Thanksgiving a little brighter for our struggling colleagues and their families during this difficult time,” Alberts said.

MEA’s Capital Area UniServ office will be accepting donations now through Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 1216 Kendale Blvd. in East Lansing. Accepted items include canned goods, pasta, rice, toiletries and other hygiene products.

Call the office with questions at 517-999-4001.