STEUBENVILLE - The mission statement for Dr. Michael Ross is prominently posted above Luanne Carroll's receptionist desk.

"To be able to help as many people as we can reach their potential, especially children" reads the sign.

It is a philosophy Ross said he tries to follow every day.

That's why the chiropractor has organized a food drive for the Urban Mission food pantry.

"Most families have enough food to eat, especially during the holidays. But with the current economic climate there are people who don't have enough food to eat these days. I just want to help when I can. That's why we are collecting non-perishable food items here at our offices," explained Ross.

"I have been blessed with my business and I want to help others who are in need. As a physician I see people from all walks of life and there are those who are in need during the holiday season," said Ross.

According to Ross, "new patients who bring a food item into the office will receive a complimentary consultation, exam and X-rays if needed. Established patients who donate a food item are entitled to a complimentary adjustment."

"With each item the patient will receive a ticket for a drawing offering a variety of prizes," added Ross.

"If we can do something to help someone else, why not do it? I just want to help where I can. This is a chance to make a difference for our neighbors who are in need. I don't believe you can enjoy your life fully if you don't offer to help others in need," said Ross.

"You don't always have to give a lot, but just give something. We just want to lift the holidays up for others," Ross noted.

Sunni Ordronneau is a two-time patient at the Steubenville Chiropractic Center on Sunset Boulevard.

"I brought non-perishable food in each visit. I came here because my back is bothering me a little during my pregnancy, and I knew about Dr. Ross's food drive. So I brought something each time," said Ordronneau.

"If I have food in my pantry I don't want anyone to go hungry. I absolutely want to help people in need. I plan on bringing some food every time I visit the office," added Ordronneau.

Ross said people wishing to just donate non-perishable food can drop the items off at his office.

"We still have about three weeks to go and I am not sure where I will put all of this food. But I believe in people and know we are going to collect a lot of boxed and canned goods that we can give to the Urban Mission," Ross stated.

(Gossett can be contacted at dgossett@heraldstaronline.com.)