The flow of cars did not stop outside of Gordon’s Drug Store Sunday afternoon for the annual “Clean Out the Freezer and Pantry Day” — an event put on by the area Sportsmen for the Hungry Organization to benefit Abraham’s Tent.

An affiliate of Hunters for the Hungry, the organization accepted donated meat from the freezers of hunters and fishermen for those in need. Food items included wrapped and labeled frozen meat and fish — wild and domestic.

Five large boxes were collected at this year’s food drive.

Sally Foret, organizer, said its a great way to make room for the next year’s bounty.

“Instead of the food going to waste the food can go to good use,” Foret said. “Abraham’s Tent needs the protein. They can use the meat to make stews and gumbos.”

She said this year’s turnout was less than in the past but she said it continues to be a success every year.

“A lot of people turned out, especially the regulars who we count on,” Foret said. “Every year they come.”

She started the annual event 14 years ago with her late husband, Dr. John Foret, and continued the effort after his death in 2003.

“He loved to hunt and fish, and this was our avenue to give,” she said about her husband. “He did not like to see things wasted. From personal experience we had things we didn’t use up during the year before the next hunting season. The food is still good and can be used.”

Foret said that dry goods and meat can continue to be dropped off at Abraham’s Tent, located at 2300 Fruge St. in Lake Charles.(Rick Hickman/American Press)