Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C,I-Black River) will be holding a holiday food drive in his district from now until December 20. Non-perishable food items will be collected at his district office and will be donated to local food pantries.

“Hunger is an ongoing problem not only nationally, but here within our own communities, and if we all donate what we can, we can help families from going hungry,” said Blankenbush. “Our lagging economy has been difficult, but it is my hope that by working together, we can make the season a bit brighter for everyone.”

According to the Food Bank of Central New York, which serves Central New York and the North Country, nearly 40 percent of emergency food recipients are children. Of those who report being unemployed, a startling 45 percent have lost their jobs within the last two years.

Donations of non-perishable canned and boxed food items can be dropped off at Blankenbush’s office, located at 15 Bridge Street in West Carthage between, 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Questions may be directed to his office at 493-3909.