While you can't cash those great big checks presented at photo ops, you certainly can use the money that's attached to them.

That is just what the Interfaith Food Pantry plans to do with the $2,300 they have received from Morristown Policeman's Benevolent Association Local 43, who presented that symbolic check to food pantry officials on Monday, Dec. 20.

The idea to make a donation to the Interfaith Food Pantry, which is located at 540a W. Hanover Ave., in Morris Township, came from Morristown Officer Mike Molnar, who said he has seen the need for services like the food pantry firsthand, especially in today's tough economic times. "We're encouraging more people to donate," he said.

The funds came from family and friends, as well as a lump sum donated directly by PBA 43, said Morristown Police Det. Keith Hudson, the Morristown representative for Local 43.

Carolyn Lake, the assistant director of the Interfaith Food Pantry, said people are surprised–including Molnar–when she tells them how many people in Morris County utilize the food pantry.

"Five-thousand household rely on this service," she said. "The problem can be hidden. That person in the bank, that could be somebody that could a lot of trouble feeding their family."

Lake said often people contribute the need for services like the Interfaith Food Pantry exclusively to those who may be categorized as "destitute," which is not always the case, she said. "The PBA gets this," Lake said. "These funds will be very helpful."

While giving to those less fortunate tends to be on many people's minds during the holidays, Lake noted this is not the only time 0rganizations like the Interfaith Food Pantry needs help. There are many ways people can contribute, through monetary donations, food or even with their time as volunteers.

Lake said the Interfaith Food Pantry boasts a volunteer staff of 180 people, with only seven full-time paid employees. Despite those robust numbers, more help is always needed, she said.

Molnar said this was the first year the PBA Local 43 decided to donate to the Interfaith Food Pantry, with funds being collected in two weeks. "It feels great," he said. "I wish we could do more. We hope to do it again."

For more information about the Interfaith Food Pantry and how to donate or volunteer, visit http://www.mcifp.org/ or call 973-538-8049.