I was appalled to see that photo on the front page of The Mirror of a woman hurling food cans into a box at the Multi-Service Center (May 29). Such behavior damages or dents cans, could expose the contents to air and ultimately lead to food spoilage. The Mirror should run a correction, noting that such dangerous behavior is not recommended.

H. David Kaplan, Federal Way

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Response to Dave Kaplan concerning photo in the Mirror

Dear Mr. Kaplan,

Thanks for your concern for food safety in the food bank.

Food Safety is always our first concern. The Multi-Service Center Food & Clothing Bank is always striving to serve our clients good, nutritious and wholesome foods. We follow guidelines from Food Lifeline and Northwest Harvest concerning food safety and viability. We have specific guidelines concerning temperatures for cooler items as well as guidelines concerning canned items. All volunteers are trained in what unacceptable damage/dent is and when items should be thrown out. Canned items are inspected at least twice by trained volunteers before they are given to clients.

The volunteers for the Make a Difference Day have previously worked in our facility and are aware of the guidelines. The photo may have been an attempt at an “action” shot and by no means meant to do damage to the canned goods that we sorely need.

I hope you know that the health and safety of everyone who comes to our facility, clients, volunteers and staff is of the greatest importance to us.

Please feel free to call or come by if you have further questions or concerns.

Respectfully,

Terri Turner, supervisor, Multi-Service Center food and clothing bank

(253) 838-6810

Response from Dave Kaplan

Thanks Dini for your response and the follow-up from Terri. I am completely satisfied with both. Dave