FARMINGTON — The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce has set its sights on providing a holiday meal to 130 Franklin County families this December.

Last year, with support of area businesses, individuals and volunteers, the program helped more than 100 families.

“Many of the baskets will be distributed countywide through our local food pantries, and applications are also being accepted from community members,” said Chamber Executive Director Stacie Bourassa.

Food baskets are distributed to families referred by local service agencies, schools, Operation Santa Claus volunteers, members of the Chamber’s board of directors, area businesses and agencies.

“Funding to local pantries has been declining over the last few years, and the need continues to rise. This is a critical time to support local efforts to ensure that our area’s residents have their basic needs met,” Bourassa said.

The Chamber seeks donations of food and monetary contributions. “More and more people step up in support of this effort each year, and I think this speaks to the value our community places on the program,” said Bourassa. 

The Gerry Wiles Holiday Food Basket Drive is now named in honor of local resident Gerry Wiles, who died in October 2010. As shared in a tribute to Wiles last year, ‘It would be Gerry’s personal request that wherever you are, whenever you can, do so much for a child as is possible by sharing your time, talents and values.’

Donation and basket request forms are available online by visiting www.franklincountymaine.org. In addition to the Welcome Center, donations of food are also being accepted at these locations: Franklin Somerset FCU, Kingfield; KeyBank, Wilton; and Otis FCU, Jay.

Submit request applications and donations of food/funds to the Chamber no later than 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9. Applications will be reviewed by the food basket committee, and granted based on eligibility and availability.

If contacted, baskets will be available for pick-up from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at the FCCOC Welcome Center, 248 Wilton Road. Arrangements may also be made for Friday, Dec. 16, if needed.