Several food drives are planned through the end of the year in an effort to stock the pantry at the local food bank for the holidays.

According to Warren King, president of RIC Rack Food Pantry, the number of families requesting assistance with groceries has almost tripled in the last few years.

The local food pantry feeds around 300 in need every month, giving out anywhere from 12,000 to 14,000 pounds of food, according to King.

As the holidays approach, he expects the numbers to continue to grow.

Canned food drop locations can be found throughout the community from the local grocery stores to each elementary school in the county and various offices in the downtown area.

Meredith Starr, coordinator for the elementary schools food drive, said it’s easy to forget how many families that need help in the community.

“Our kids and our whole school community are always so generous,” said Meredith Starr. “Our drive is a great chance to help those in need and to teach our students about the importance of giving back.”

The four elementary schools hope to collect 7,000 non-perishable food items.

A report by feeding America indicates one in eight Americans sought emergency food assistance from local food pantries or food banks in 2009.

King said he is pleased the community is coming together to “fill the current need for food for those Dawson County neighbors who need assistance.”

RIC Rack Thrift Store and Food Pantry is located at the intersection of Perimeter Road and Hwy. 9 North. For more information on the food pantry, call (706) 265-1371.