Word came from our nation's capital on Tuesday that there may be a sliver of light at the end of this economic turmoil.

Let's all pray they're correct.

Unfortunately, the so-called experts say it will continue to get worse before it gets better, and probably won't head in a positive direction until 2010. They claim a slight increase in the housing market has some pointing to the end.

Until we reach the end, there will continue to be some tough times.

Times are tough even if you have a job, so you can imagine what it's like for those who don't.

Those in need of food rely on food assistance programs, including the Linton Community Food Pantry.

The LCFP is the collaborative effort of St. Peter's Catholic Church, Saron United Church of Christ, Linton Christian Church, and the First United Methodist Church of Linton.

It's located at the corner of 4th and E Sts. NE near St. Peter's.

The LCFP is like any other business or organization these days, it's having a tough time keeping its shelves stocked.

That's why LCFP officials have decided to host a benefit concert to help raise awareness and stock the shelves of the pantry.

While the LCFP building expansion project is nearing its completion, the pantry won't be totally complete without food for the many families who need assistance. Help "Pack the Pantry" by bringing a bag of non-perishable food to the concert featuring local contemporary Christian band, Between Sundays. The concert will be May 19 at 7 p.m., at Linton First Christian Church, State Road 54.

Items such as peanut butter, saltine crackers, dry pasta, spaghetti sauce, macaroni and cheese, canned veggies, canned fruit, and canned meat are always in need.

With the increasing need locally for assistance, the food available at the LCFP is given out as quickly as the donations are received. LCFP organizers say your simple act of giving can make a difference in keeping food available.

If you can't make it to the concert, donations can be made at the LCFP from 1 to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 10 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.

Donations of non-perishable items can also be made at any time in the drop-off containers at both pull-through drives at Linton First Christian Church.

You can help "Pack the Pantry" in other ways as well. Donations of beef from farmers or deer from hunters are made into hamburger. The pantry also accepts fresh fruits and vegetables from gardens.

Monetary donations are always welcomed.

The Linton Community Food Pantry can be reached at 847-9195.

Chris is the general manager/editor of the Greene County Daily World. He can be reached by telephone at 847-4487 or 1-800-947-4487 or by e-mail at cpruett79@hotmail.com .