This may be not be a feasible idea- but I thought I'd put it out here anyway. I've emailed the idea to the Obama site, but I don't know how soon they look at them. Anyway, I was thinking with the economy so bad ,food pantries have little to distribute and as unemployment increases the need will increase. I guess this may be more symbolic than helpful ,but it could become a tradition. First, I thought that for the millions going to DC, it would be difficult to take a can of food to donate. Then ,I thought if the Obama team was interested,perhaps designations to give even $1.00 to legitimate food pantries could be identified. Then, I thought, that for those not going to Washington, perhaps like the prior viewing parties, local groups might request that those attending bring a nonperishable good or donation. If done nationally, it could be a nice complement to the big celebrations and show that we intend to help people.
Then I thought, I wonder if the big celebrations might have additional food that could be donated to something like Second Harvest that accepts food from restaurants and uses it at soup kitchens. This is extra prepared food that has not been served,but would otherwise be put in the garbage. I also, wondered, if there is extra food when there are White House Dinners.I wonder if that could also be donated ?.
And, I thought, at the large government buildings with cafeterias, perhaps they could also adopt this. I don't know all the regulations or if it is possible, but I feel each little thing helps. It would also help the environment, because there would be less garbage to dispose.
The worst part of this idea- I live in an area that I couldn't even host a viewing, because my TV may not carry it.If you don't like the food pantry idea, you could promote it in terms of a need in your area or your concern.