Members of the US Army carry food into St. Margret's Church in Bayou La Batre, Ala. on Thursday, August 26, 2010 while a crowd of people patiently wait. More than 11,000 pounds of food were distributed at the event.

Renee-Busby (Press Register). Source Link: Al.com

BAYOU LA BATRE, Ala. -- More than 11,000 pounds of food were handed out to more than 200 people Thursday at a mobile food pantry distribution for those affected by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill crisis.

The food distribution was the 7th since June, in an area where the spill has caused severe hardship. Bay Area Food Bank and Boat People SOS Inc. coordinated the effort.

Former U.S. Marine Mitch Smith said that he never expected to be standing in line for free food. He waited in line today at St. Margaret's for the food giveaway.

The 60-year-old Smith, who lives in the Bayou, lost his job at a seafood processing plant after the Gulf oil spill erupted in April.

"I have been working all of my life and taking care of myself," Smith said. "Having to ask for food isn't right."

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