"We are hit with a double whammy during the summer months, since children who receive free or reduced meals through the school program are eating meals at home, and there are no huge school food drives during their summer break," said Janet Nelson supervisor at the food pantry.

Donations of food and household supplies, as well as cash donations are always welcome.

"There are many ways you can help those less fortunate," said Nelson. "Have a food drive at your workplace, neighborhood, or with your church group or organization. If you prefer to make a cash donation, we have volunteers on hand that would just love to shop for the best deals on the most needed food items."

Monetary donations can be set to Holy Family Food Pantry, 1023 E. Washington, Springfield, IL 62703. Food and household items can be dropped off during regular business hours at the above address.

Food and household items needed year round include: canned fruit, canned meats, jelly, pancake mix and syrup, packaged helper meals, snack foods, juice drinks, Kool Aid-type mixes, tea bags, spaghetti with meat sauce, gelatin mixes, macaroni and cheese, baked beans, soups, toilet paper, deodorant, bath and dish soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes.