This holiday season, the Putnam County Food Pantry – in collaboration with Toys in the Pantry, organizations, businesses, churches and schools from across the county – again will be distributing Christmas baskets to local families in need.

This is the 36th year the pantry has sponsored the basket project. The baskets contain food and gifts for children and senior citizens. Included are items for a full Christmas dinner as well as breakfast and pizza for Christmas Eve. The baskets will be distributed Saturday, Dec. 16.

To support the project, cash and food donations continue to be needed. Products such as coffee, hot chocolate, drinks, jello, canned fruit, easy-to-prepare meals and personal care items are especially appreciated.

A cash donation of $75 will support the cost of food for one average-size family. Donations can be sent to the Putnam County Food Pantry, Box 96, Granville, or deposited directly at the Granville National Bank. Food can be left at any of the county banks or at the food pantry.

Over the years, the Putnam County community has been supportive of the ongoing work of the food pantry and the Christmas Basket Project.