Residents of Oxford and Miami University are invited to participate in a community-wide food drive Saturday. The day has also been designated by President Obama as a National Day of Service since 2009. This food drive, however, is different from other events, according to organizer Terri Spahr Nelson.

First, it will be held in conjunction with a national day of service to make a difference in our local community. Second, a goal of 2,013 pounds of food and toiletries has been set to benefit the Oxford Community Choice Pantry.

“We’re asking the community to come together at a time of great need for so many and to give what you can. Together, we can collect over a ton of donations for our local pantry” Spahr Nelson said.

As the economy has gotten worse, more families have needed to use the food pantry, she said.

The pantry has a need for items such as canned tuna, peanut butter, canned fruit, boxes of spaghetti, cereal, fresh produce, and personal care items such as shampoo, toothpaste and soap, according to director Mike Johnson.

“Non-perishable items such as canned goods are always needed to stock the shelves, but other items that are harder for families to get include produce and cheese,” Spahr Nelson said.

Financial donations can also be made to the pantry. All donations are tax deductible.