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This year has brought many struggles and challenges.

“As we begin to prepare for the upcoming holiday season, let’s remember those that need a little extra help this year,” said Colleen Church,   N.C. Cooperative Extension Davie County Center director.

Extension is sponsoring a food drive from Nov. 16-Dec. 11 to benefit local food pantries.

A collection box will be located outside the front door of the Extension Center for no-contact drop-offs.  The Extension Center is also open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for large donations and is located at 180 S. Main St. in downtown Mocksville, beside the courthouse. Ring the doorbell for assistance.  The office will be closed Nov. 26-27 for the Thanksgiving.

Non-perishable food items needed for donation include: canned fruits (in juice, water or light syrup), vegetables (low sodium), soup (low sodium), tomatoes and tomato sauce; applesauce (unsweetened); raisins; fruit cups; dried or canned beans (low sodium); canned tuna, salmon or chicken; peanut butter; dry, evaporated or shelf-stable milk (low fat); brown rice; whole wheat pasta; whole grain crackers and cereals, such as oatmeal, grits, raisin bran, etc. and high fiber, low sugar granola bars.

“Several church-based food pantries have been identified to receive the donations,” Church said. “We hope to collect enough items to share them among multiple locations to reach different areas of the county.”

For questions or more information, contact Cooperative Extension at 336.753.6100, or visit davie.ces.ncsu.edu.