With the holidays approaching, the need to collect food is as urgent as it ever was for families in need.

Determined to make sure that everybody can enjoy a holiday meal, Susan Morse, Mt. Olive Food Pantry coordinator, and members of the Mt. Olive Area Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club of Mount Olive, are teaming up to spearhead this year’s Mt. Olive Area Fall Food Drive.

“A lot of people are having a real tough time,” said Morse. “There are a lot of single moms, seniors, and others who simply can’t afford to put enough food on their table.”

Many families continue to struggle and the food drive clearly helps. The 21st Annual Food Drive aims to respond to the need.

Thousands of pounds of food have been collected over the years, as well as monetary and gift card donations. 

“Every little bit helps,” said the Chamber’s Greg Stewart, a Mt. Olive Township councilman. “Thankfully we have a number of corporate and small business partners that do their part to help.”

Indeed, the amount of food collected through this drive has steadily increased over the past several years due to a higher demand and the generosity of people who care. In 2005, when demand was not as high, the organization collected only 820 pounds.  
 
The Annual Fall Food Drive was initiated many years ago by Dr. John Berezny of Berezny Chiropractic in Flanders. Today, it has become one of the community’s most important activities.

Suggested food donations may include non-perishable foods, boxed cereals, peanut butter, jam, and other canned goods. Personal care items are also welcome. The food drive takes place through November, with the donations being given directly to the Mt. Olive Food Pantry.  Morse would also like to remind folks that the need for food is year-round and that donations are accepted anytime of the year.  
 
Monetary donations can also be made online at yougivegoods.com/mountolivepantry. Any checks dropped off should be made out to Mt. Olive Pantry. For additional information contact Morse at 862-251-3938 or 201-274-3701; or email mountolivepantrynj@gmail.com.