Items donated during Food Check-Out Day will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House in Morgantown to be used by families staying in the facility while their children are receiving medical treatment.

Now in it’s 11th year, Food Check-Out Weeks highlights America’s safe, abundant, and affordable food supply, made possible largely by American’s productive farmers and ranchers.

In 2009, the average American will have earned enough money by the third week of February to pay for the food they will consume throughout the year.

With the continuing economic squeeze, many Americans are concerned that the cost of a healthy diet is out of reach. However, according to an Agricultural Department study, the cost of eating healthy hasn’t changed. Eating healthy food within a budget does require smart shopping.

America’s farmers and ranchers are committed to produce safe, healthy, and abundant food, and they share the same common concern when it comes to putting nutritious meals on the table while sticking to a tight budget.

The good news is that a March 2008 USDA report favorably supports the economics of healthier eating. Recent food price data show that prices for unprepared, readily available fresh fruits and vegetables have remained stable relative to dessert snack foods, such as chips, ice cream, and cola.

Therefore, as defined by foods in the study, the price of a “healthier” diet has not changed compared to an “unhealthy” diet.

“Fruit and vegetables-along with whole grains, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts-are an important part of a healthy diet. Buying fresh produce when it’s in season costs less, while buying frozen fruits and vegetables when they’re not in season, is a smart way to stretch that dollar,” says Bob Yeager, WCFB president.

As part of Food Check-Out Week, Wetzel County Farm Bureau is sponsoring a food drive at Witschey’s market in New Martinsville on Feb. 20. The food collected will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House in Morgantown.

The Ronald McDonald House provides a “home-away-from-home” for families of seriously ill children receiving medical treatment at West Virginia University or Monongalia General Hospital. The food will be used to help feed families staying at the house.

In addition to the groceries, the WCFB will also make a cash donation, donate youth size handmade quits, and pop tabs. The group will deliver the groceries on Feb. 21 in Morgantown.

Anyone wishing to donate food, quilts, or pop tabs can contact Lynn Adams at 889-2473 or Robyn Yeager at 386-4567. The WCFB is a non-profit organization. For more information about Food Check Out Day or the Farm Bureau and their activities call 386-4567.