MARYSVILLE – For many families in Marysville and Tulalip, the holidays can bring more hardship than joy. The Marysville Food Bank and Toy Store are asking for the community’s support to help neighbors in need.

A holiday donation campaign will officially kick off with the All City Food Drive Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations needed include food, unused toys, stocking stuffers, gift cards, new books, coats and wrapping materials.

Residents are encouraged to look for the iconic red giving barrels wherever they shop and do business. Individuals can also drop off donations at the food bank.

Another way to give is by bringing unwrapped gifts for newborns to 17-year-olds to any Marysville government building, including the parks office, community center, city hall, police station and all fire stations.

“We realize that when a family receives food from the Food Bank it frees up money that is used to keep the lights on, put fuel in the car, pay medical bills and cover other basic needs,” food bank director Dell Deierling said. Toy Store chairperson Tara Mizell added, “All donations have a meaningful impact on our local families.”

The food bank is also looking for volunteers all season long. Contact marysvillefoodbank@frontier.com., email fbtoystore@gmail.com or call volunteer coordinators Emily Wicks at 360-965-0007 or Christie Veley at 360-363-8507.

Families in need are asked to sign up by visiting the food bank at 4150 88th St. NE before Dec. 2.

Thanksgiving Food Basket distribution will be Nov. 17 and 20 from 9 a.m.–noon and Nov. 21 from 2-6:30 p.m.

Christmas Food Basket distribution is Dec. 18 and 22 from 9 a.m.-noon and Dec. 19 from 2-6:30 p.m.

The Toy Store is 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 13 (L-Z) and 14 (A-K).