This holiday season, as we all gather with our friends and families, it’s important to remember those who are less fortunate and need a helping hand. That’s why I’m asking everyone to consider donating to my annual food drive to benefit the Food Bank of Central New York. Unfortunately, hunger is a serious problem for families throughout the United States. An estimated 1 in 7 Americans rely on emergency food assistance.¹ Thousands rely on charitable food programs in central and northern New York and a third of recipients are children under 18.² During the holidays, food banks across the state are working tirelessly to provide meals for the families who depend on their programs and services. This time of year can be especially expensive for working families and those living on a fixed budget. However, donations are needed year-round to ensure those less fortunate can afford to put food on the table. That’s why I’ll be collecting canned goods and other nonperishable food items through the end of the year. Items to consider donating include: canned tuna, vegetables, beans, dried fruits, dinner mixes, pasta, rice, grains, oatmeal, cereal, peanut butter and soups. Donations can be dropped off at my office, 7293 Buckley Road, Suite 201, North Syracuse, or at a local participating library. All food collected will be donated to the Food Bank of Central New York. Participating libraries include:

• Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., 457-0310
• Minoa Library, 242 N. Main St., 656-7401
• Northern Onondaga Public Library at Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., 676-7484
• Northern Onondaga Public Library at Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, 699-2032
• Northern Onondaga Public Library at North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, 458-6184