The annual Helping Hands spring food drive is happening on May 3, as the organization looks to stock their pantry for the upcoming month’s hampers.

Helping Hands provides food assistance to those in need in Niverville, New Bothwell, Otterburne, and Ste. Agathe. Hampers are distributed twice per month throughout most of the year and once per month during the summer.

“As per tradition, the food drive is supported by youth groups in Niverville and New Bothwell churches,” explains Ashley Chamberlain, Volunteer Program Coordinator. “The youth will distribute door hangers on Wednesday, May 1, advising residents of the upcoming food drive. They will return on Friday, May 3 after 6:00 p.m. to pick up donations. If residents wish to, they can leave donations in a bag or box on their front step either with the door hanger attached, or clearly mark [them for] Helping Hands.”

The most needed items include pasta, rice, fruit juice, canned beans and meat, and gluten-free items. There is currently no need for canned cream soup. For those who wish to donate in other ways, Helping Hands accepts cash and cheque donations as well. Those who donate amounts greater than $20 receive a tax receipt.