It’s that time of year when the community spirit in Gilbert shines, as residents come together to tackle hunger head-on with the annual Gilbert Feeding Families Food Drive, kicking into gear this month. From February 10 through February 23, locals are rallying to gather nonperishable food items and cash donations, funneling a much-needed lifeline to fellow Arizonians grappling with food insecurity. According to an announcement on Gilbert's official website, the staggering need local food banks are facing has made this year’s drive more crucial than the years before, with increased demand painting a stark picture of the current food landscape.

The initiative spans across the town, roping in schools, businesses, and houses of worship as collection points for food, and for those inclined to monetary contributions, the drive accepts them online, last year's feats presenting a goal to beat with 32,478 pounds of food, and a cash flow of $25,303, that translated into over 126,000 meals.

There's an added sweetener for Gilbert's foodies; several restaurants will chip in by committing a slice of their sales from February 21-23 to the food drive. It's a chance to grab a meal out and help out, a symbiosis of community patronage and benevolent giving. In the words etched on Gilbert's website, “Every dollar donated can provide five meals."

All those looking to pitch in can find information on how to donate, including a list of drop-off locations and the participating restaurants on Gilbert's official website.