A couple of Shelby County non-profit groups whose mission is to help those among us in need are in need themselves.

Dr. Earl Cunningham, a board member of the Salvation Army Corps located in Alabaster, said for the first time in his nine years of affiliation with that group, its cupboards are bare.

“The situation is dire,” Cunningham said.

The Salvation Army is seeking donations of cereals, oatmeal, spaghetti noodles, Ramen noodles, macaroni and cheese, rice, complete meals in a box, bread and muffin mixes, canned goods like fruit, canned meats like tuna and chicken, soups, spaghetti sauce and potatoes.

Donations can be brought to the Salvation Army at 108 Plaza Circle, Alabaster, AL 35007. The Salvation Army is open daily.

Donations can be mailed to the Salvation Army Corps, P.O. Box 309, Alabaster, AL 35007.

“I really hope the citizens respond because the need is great and because we in Shelby County need to take care of our own,” Cunningham said.

Also in need of donations of items is Family Connection, located in Saginaw.

In its recent newsletter, Family Connections officials said as the holidays approach, their need is greater than ever.

Items on the Family Connection wish list include personal hygiene products, household goods, bottled water, canned food items, blankets and new and used clothing.

To donate or for more information, please contact Susan Johnston at Family Connection, (205) 663-6301 ext. 201 or email shelbyyouth@charterinternet.com.