The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce has set its sights on providing holiday meals to Franklin County families this December. Last year, with tremendous support of area businesses, individuals, and numerous volunteers, the program helped more than 120 families come together over a warm meal during the holidays. With a community like Franklin County behind it, the Chamber is confident it can reach even more people this holiday season.

The Chamber seeks donations of food and monetary contributions in preparation for this community service project. Food baskets are distributed to families referred by local service agencies, schools, Operation Santa Claus volunteers, United Way of the Tri-Valley Area, members of the Chamber’s board of directors, and other area businesses and agencies.

The Basket Drive is now named in honor of local resident Gerry Wiles, who left us in October of 2010. As shared in a tribute to Mr. 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 Chamber office, donations of food are also being accepted at these locations: Skowhegan Savings Bank, Kingfield; KeyBank, Wilton; and Otis FCU, Jay.

Please submit request applications for food baskets to the Chamber no later than 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Donations will be accepted until 4 p.m. Monday, 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 by individual recipients from 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Dec. 13, at the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce office, 615 Wilton Rd in Farmington.

Baskets will be available for pick up by food cupboard representatives on from 1-5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at Comfort Inn & Suites, 1026 US Route 2 East in Wilton.

By everyone doing a small part, it really makes a big difference in our communities! Thank you for your consideration.