Lexington: Donate canned goods, save on unpaid parking citations

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ)- Lexington is bringing back its “Food for Fines” canned food drive. People with unpaid parking tickets will be able to get a discount on their citations by donating food for struggling Kentucky families.

The city says, “Customers who bring in 10 cans of food will receive $15 off any parking citation issued by LEXPARK or the Lexington Police Department. Customers with multiple citations may bring in 10 cans per citation to receive the discount and past due citations are eligible. The LEXPARK office is located at 122 North Broadway.”

According to the city, the food drive will run from November 16 through December 18.

“Last year citizens brought in over 6,200 cans of food as payment for over 600 meter citations. We hope by opening the program up to all types of citations, we’ll see those numbers increase this season,” said Parking Authority Executive Director Gary Means. All canned food donations received by LEXPARK will be donated to God’s Pantry Food Bank. Canned fruits and vegetables, proteins, shelf stable milk and peanut butter which are at least 14-15 oz. large are suggested.

“During this time of year when lots of Lexingtonians are looking to give back to their community, it’s wonderful to see organizations like LEXPARK engage with our Food Bank in creative ways to fight hunger and deliver hope. These canned food items will help stock the shelves of our four Lexington Pantry locations which help feed hungry Fayette County families year round. One expired parking meter ticket could mean two meals for hungry Fayette County families,” said Marian Guinn, CEO of God’s Pantry Food Bank.

The city says, “Expired, damaged or opened food donations will not be accepted. Please be considerate when selecting donated items. LEXPARK reserves the right to revoke a customer’s participation in this program at any time.*