The Cullman Times Cares & Shares food drive will enter its 10th year Monday with a goal of securing 200,000 pounds of food.

Donations of non-perishable food items and cash will be accepted at The Times through 5 p.m., Nov. 17. All of the food and monmey will go directly to the Cullman Caring for Kids food bank, which provides assistance to an average of 650 local families per month.

The food drive has become a holiday tradition across Cullman County as individuals, clubs, church congregations, schools and businesses contribute to help others in the community who are experiencing economic difficulties.

Each dollar contributed allows Cullman Caring for Kids to purchase seven pounds of food. Cullman Caring for Kids Director Javon Daniel said efforts are made to provide a wide variety of food to ensure families are getting balanced meals. Canned vegetables and meats, cereals, pasta and items for infants such as formula and disposable diapers are also needed.

To assist in this annual holiday tradition of giving, bring your donations to The Times at 300 Fourth Avenue SE, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Questions about donations may be directed to Editor David Palmer at 256-734-2131, or dpalmer@cullmantimes,com.

Cullman Caring for Kids is located at 402 Arnold St NE, Cullman. The organization’s number is 256-739-1111.