Interested in serving some time in “jail” to help the Family Pathways Food Pantry in Forest Lake?

Area residents will have the opportunity next week to spend some time in the “cooler” or open up their wallets to help the Family Pathways food shelf program.

And the program needs help, says Curt Ratclif, food shelf coordinator in Forest Lake.

With fall here and winter fast approaching, Ratclif says the need has been high for the food pantry which serves the Forest Lake area, northern Washington County communities and the Wyoming area.

The bail and jail event on Thursday, Oct. 25 will be one step by Family Pathways and a number of key sponsors to replenish the food banks and build up stock and cash for later purchases.

Family Pathways is now seeking area business support for donations and volunteers wishing to serve as jail birds for the event next week.

Between 1:30-3 p.m. on Oct. 25, Famous Dave’s in Forest Lake will offer its facility as a jailer. Area residents willing to serve jail time will be issued a warrant and arrested during that designated jail time.

Those taking part will be asked to raise $250 in bail money from friends, neighbors and co-workers to support the food shelf. Individuals taking part are encouraged to raise their bail money in advance of being jailed.

Bail bond companies for the day are ERA Muske Company Real Estate, Forest Lake Ford, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and Wal-Mart in Forest Lake. Some matching funds will be provided.

All bail contributions to the Family Pathways Food Pantry are tax-deductible.

Any individual or business wishing to help should call Ratclif at the local Family Pathways Food Pantry at 651-464-2098 to volunteer or for more information.

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