`Every single donation counts' in annual Christmas food drive

Donations to the 26th annual Spirit of Christmas Food Drive are still being accepted as the drive moves into its final weeks.

The goal is to feed 13,000 families in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. The food drive is sponsored by Brookshire Grocery Company and various service organizations, including the Chandler Lions Club.

"Many families receive assistance through this effort, and every single donation counts," said Sam Anderson, director of public relations for BGC.

Donations may be made by placing non-perishable food items in designated bins inside participating stores before Christmas. Items needed include canned meats, vegetables, soups, beans, rice and pasta.

Brookshire's will give at least one baking hen to each family assisted by the drive. In 2006, the company provided more than 15,000 hens. Food drive officials expect to provide the same or more this year.

The Chandler Lions Club will gather, sort, box, and distribute the food before Christmas. Anderson said the drive targets those most in need, especially the elderly and single-parent households. Recipients are screened by local relief organizations or government agencies to verify degree of need.

All food will be distributed in the area where it is collected.