Working to provide nourishing meals to those in need, CenterWell Home Health launched its 20th annual Food Fundraising Drive to benefit the local community that began on Wednesday, August 21, and running through Saturday, Sept. 21.

Over the years, the company has collectively donated over 1.3 million meals to people in need. All items collected will be donated for distribution to the community through the Full Tummy Project of Covington and Christian Service Centers.

“According to Feeding America, in 2021, 5.5 million seniors aged 60 and up faced hunger. That’s 1 in 14 seniors or 7.1 percent of all seniors. Food insecurity takes a severe tool on seniors’ health and nutrition and can increase disease risk or worsen existing conditions,” a CenterWell press release said.

CenterWell will be collecting food and funds to benefit the two local non-profits during this time. A food drive will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Andalusia location.

All non-perishable donations are welcome. High-demand items needed include low-sodium items, boxed dinners, peanut butter, jelly, canned goods, pop-top ravioli, pop-top Vienna sausages, mini boxes of cereal, Slim Jims, individual packages of snacks, pop-top Beanie Weenies, cups of applesauce, and small cans of Pringles.

Food and funds will be collected through Sept. 21. Donors can also make a financial contribution at CenterWell. Items are welcome for drop off at the CenterWell Andalusia branch Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Sept. 21.

“As an organization dedicated to serving seniors in our communities, we know firsthand the challenges they face. CenterWell wants to ensure that food, the most basic component of good health, is available to all. Help us show our community support as we collect and spread the word to donate,” the statement continued.

CenterWell Home Health is located at 1512 East Three Notch Street in Andalusia.

For any questions or to arrange for donation pick up, email marlee.bass@centerwellhomehealth.com or call 334-360-3270.