The Mastic-Moriches-Shirley Community Library will launch a Community Cares Drive in March to provide essentials to those in need.
The drive includes nonperishable foods and travel-size toiletries and personal hygiene items, which can be dropped off during library hours in the lobby of the Shirley library or its branches in Mastic Beach and Moriches.
“We’re collecting everything to give to local food pantries like St. Jude Church,” said Adult Reference Librarian Catherine Gorden. “This is something that people should make an effort to do right now, especially with these huge snowstorms. There’s a lot of people out there in the community, who just need a helping hand. Food prices are up, and it’s just a way for the community to help support its more vulnerable members.”
She said libraries serve as community centers and respond to a variety of needs. The Mastic-Moriches-Shirley Community Library organizes bimonthly donation drives, including school supplies prior to September.
“Also, back in November, we did a Winter Warmth Drive collecting things like hats and scarves and gloves. So, we’ve been trying to rotate different drives to go with the seasons.”
Throughout February, the library system hosted a Have-a-Heart Food Drive, she said.
The Community Cares Drive will be the first of its kind for the library system. For those who want to contribute, Gorden suggested canned meat, beans and vegetables; pasta and sauce; items with a long shelf life; baby food; and snacks such as Nutri-Grain and granola bars. Suggested toiletries include toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner.
The drive will run from March through June. For more information, visit the library’s website.