MARYSVILLE — Operation Marysville Community Christmas, an ad hoc committee of the Marysville Community Food Bank, is registering families in need now for Thanksgiving and Christmas food baskets and toys.

Recipients must register during regular distribution hours on Tuesdays from 3-6 p.m. and Fridays from 9-11 a.m. The food bank is located at 4150 88th St. NE, south of and just behind St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Volunteers are needed at the food bank for a variety of tasks. If you wish to help, please call the food bank at 360-658-1054 or log onto marysvillecommunityfb.com. If you wish to help OMCC, please call 360-658-1055.

OMCC officially kicks off its efforts with the All City Food Drive on Nov. 7. Volunteer organizations will be stationed at area grocery stores to encourage donations and share information about OMCC. During the holiday season, look for red giving barrels at entrances and lobbies in more than 50 participating grocers, businesses, public buildings and places of worship.

In addition, watch for the “Toys for Tots” and “Filling the needs of the community” banners around town for food and toy collections.

Individuals who wish to donate non-perishable food items, unused toys, stocking stuffers, cash cards, candy or wrapping materials are welcome to drop them off at the food bank between 8-11 a.m. every day, except Wednesdays and Sundays. The food bank has a shortage of pet food this year, so pet food donations would be greatly welcomed, for low-income families and individuals who are having trouble keeping their animals fed and healthy.

Sue Kendall, an OMCC volunteer, pointed out that donations and gifts will go directly to families in the community.

Thanksgiving food baskets will be distributed Nov. 20, 23 and 24, and Christmas Food Baskets will be distributed Dec. 18, 21 and 22. The toy store will be open Dec. 17, 18 and 19.