The Desert Mission Food Bank has seen a marked increase in need this year – more than 40 percent more households were served this year than last year – and with the holiday season here, the organization will be busier than ever as residents come in to pick up groceries.

To help fill the need, residents who would like to give back to their community may make donations of food, which are always welcome and greatly appreciated, staff say.

Donations can be dropped off Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., or Fridays between 9 a.m. and noon.

For a list of most needed items and drop-off details, visit www.desertmission.com/food-bank.

Another way folks can help those in need in the neighborhood is through the Desert Mission annual Holiday Adopt a Family event where they match community members in need with a donor who adopts their family and shops their holiday wish list.

“We currently have a waiting list for donors who would like to participate,” staff said, “but folks are welcome to sign up on the waiting list – if we are unable to match them with a family this year, they will be the first to get notified next year once our program launches. Any general toy donations to the food bank can go towards the Holiday Adopt a Family program or to our food bank guests who have children.”

For more information, visit www.desertmission.com/adopt-a-family.

Beyond the holiday season, volunteer opportunities are wide open beginning in January. Those interested can sign up to volunteer at www.desertmission.com/volunteer.

Desert Mission Food Bank is located at 9229 N. 4th St. For additional information, call 602-870-6062.