Mary Fallin To Launch Food Drive On Wednesday

Wire and Staff reports

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Gov.-elect Mary Fallin is launching a statewide food drive as part of her inauguration as Oklahoma's 27th governor.

Fallin made the announcement at the Regional Food Bank in Oklahoma City, asking Oklahomans to donate non-perishable food items to the "Feeding Oklahoma" food drive planned by her inaugural committee.

The food drive begins December 1.

"Oklahomans are the most giving, caring people in the country," said Fallin. "I'm calling on that generous spirit this holiday season to help us provide food to those Oklahomans in need."

The "Feeding Oklahoma" drive is being launched in partnership with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma.

Fallin, a Republican, was elected November 2 with more than 60 percent of the vote over Democrat Jari Askins.

She will become Oklahoma's first female governor when she's sworn into office on January 10, replacing term-limited Democratic Gov. Brad Henry.  The inauguration ceremony will be held that day on the south steps of the state Capitol, weather permitting.

Food donation drop-off spots are located at all BancFirst locations statewide and all Oklahoma City Metro Area Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores.  UPS will help transport the donated food items.

There will also be an opportunity to make monetary donations online to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma at www.feedoklahoma.org, or by texting "OK" to 27722.

Chesapeake Energy will match every monetary donation through the holiday season up to $100,000.

11/3/2010 Related story: Outgoing Gov. Brad Henry, Gov.-Elect Mary Fallin Hold Joint Press Conference

The Associated Press contributed to this report.