By 1808Delaware
The City of Delaware and United Way of Delaware County have teamed up for a citywide holiday food drive, running now through December 19. The goal is straightforward: make it easier for residents to support local families who are feeling the strain of food insecurity, especially as the holidays approach.
It’s a practical partnership. United Way works year-round with the Delaware County Hunger Alliance and other nonprofits to support the county’s network of pantries and meal programs. By adding city facilities as collection points, the drive brings more people into that effort and keeps local food shelves from running thin at a time when demand typically rises.
Where You Can Drop Off Food
Residents can donate shelf-stable, nonperishable food at multiple city-operated sites during regular hours. The list includes high-traffic stops and neighborhood fixtures, making it easy to contribute whether you’re running errands or out for a walk.
Donation sites include:
- City Hall
- COhatch in downtown Delaware
- The Justice Center
- Mingo Park
- Public Works
- The Water Treatment Plant
- All City fire stations
The drive runs through December 19, giving residents several weeks to pitch in.
Where Your Donation Goes
All collected food heads directly to local pantries serving Delaware County households. Agencies connected with the Delaware County Hunger Alliance and People In Need’s Holiday Clearinghouse use these donations to pack multi-day groceries and assist families, seniors, and individuals who rely on consistent food support.
For many households, this help fills the gap between regular budgets and the higher costs that hit toward the end of the year. City-sponsored drives like this one make a noticeable difference in how much these organizations can offer.
Other Ways to Donate This Week
If you prefer to give directly, several local groups accept food donations during the week:
- People in Need (138 Johnson Dr): Typically open Monday–Thursday 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM and Friday 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Salvation Army Delaware Corps (89 Cheshire St): Accepts canned and boxed goods during office hours
- United Way Family Resource Center (74 W William St): Part of the county pantry network, with posted open hours online
Pantry hours can shift, so checking their websites or the Delaware County Hunger Alliance map is wise if you’re heading out on a specific day.
A Community Effort With a Clear Impact
This drive isn’t flashy. It doesn’t need to be. It’s a community effort that strengthens programs already doing quiet, steady work across Delaware County. A few cans, a box of pasta, a jar of peanut butter — it all adds up quickly when an entire city participates.
Photo: Creative Commons License
