VIDALIA — Miss-Lou residents that scoured their cars for change Wednesday helped Feed the Hungry raise $6,020 during its annual red light drive.

The annual fundraiser helps the organization feed needy residents in the Miss-Lou.

Volunteers crowded the intersection of Carter Street and Cross Street with buckets and signs to collect money from drivers.

Feed the Hungry founder Linda Bonnette said the event was pushed back twice because of weather conditions, but that she was happy with the turnout.

“I was concerned with the economy the way it is, but when you see people donating anything they have it shows that people don’t just want to drive off without helping out,” Bonnette said.

The organization purchases approximately $2,000 in groceries every month and the money raised during the red light drive is crucial for them to continue, Bonnette said.

“We’re so appreciative of everyone in the Miss-Lou for their kindness and support,” Bonnette said. “It doesn’t matter what side of the bridge you’re on, if someone’s in need we all respond the same.”

Bonnette said the fundraiser wouldn’t be possible without the support of the City of Vidalia and Mayor Hyram Copeland.

City employees are asked to participate in the fundraiser by collecting money with other volunteers.

Copeland said he and the city are glad to be part of an organization that helps the community.

“It’s something we do every year, and we’re just glad to be a part of it,” Copeland said. “I want to thank everyone that participated and everyone who donated money.”

The organization also received some extra help this year in the form of a brown bag special and a canned food drive.

Without Bonnette’s knowledge, Vidalia Lower Elementary began a canned food drive at the school.

“They called me and asked when I wanted to pick up the cans, and I didn’t even know they were doing that,” Bonnette said. “We were thrilled to get those.”

Robert Parker, store manager at Vidalia Market, began a $5 brown bag special that contains food essentials like canned food and pasta.

Bonnette said she figured the special would go on for a few weeks or until after the holidays.

Seven weeks later, 287 bags had been raised and Bonnette said they had no intention of slowing down.

“He just said, ‘As long as you accept the food, we’ll keep doing it,” Bonnette said. “The whole community has been so supportive in helping us continue to do what we do.”