The Westonka Food Shelf is serving more people than ever, including people who have never needed help before. Friday afternoon, it staged a very bold, very visual event as a reminder that anyone can be susceptible and anyone can help.

“We’re trying to make people more aware of the needs of people, especially in light of so many people losing their jobs and needing help,” Westonka Food Shelf manager Jack Weist said.

A chain of volunteers wrapped all the way through downtown Mound on Friday, starting at the grocery store, ending at the food bank and passing 6,000 pounds of donated food along the way.

Friday’s human chain was the first event of its kind at the Westonka Food Shelf. Weist says the recession has created plenty of new customers.

“We are seeing a lot of new families,” he said. “Times are tough, people get laid off and have trouble making ends meet.”

So Friday’s event was not just about raising awareness, but also erasing the stigma.

Weist said the Westonka Food Shelf has been lucky, with donations rising to meet the need over the past few months. That’s not the case in all communities, and Weist said he hopes Friday’s event serves as a reminder, no matter where you live.