Kent State University at Ashtabula is hosting its ninth annual Thanksgiving Food Drive Nov. 5 through Nov. 8 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m in the Commons. Donated canned food and non-perishable items will be supplied to families throughout Ashtabula County.

The Ashtabula Campus student chapter of the Association of Information Technology Professionals has been collecting food for the Thankful Hearts Program for nine years. Computer technology assistant professor and food drive coordinator Irene Edge said families in need are remembered at Christmas time, but during other holidays are ignored. The Thankful Hearts Program offers families the opportunity to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

Non-perishable items and monetary donations are delivered to Catholic Charities of Ashtabula County. Catholic Charities has its own method of distribution to those in need.

“[Catholic Charities] take monetary collections and purchase hams and turkeys, as well as other traditional food items to make a memorable Thanksgiving for the families they support,” Edge said.

Edge welcomes other campuses to take part in donating. Any campus or individual who wants to contribute to the event can send contributions to Irene Edge at Kent State Ashtabula in the Main Hall by Nov. 8. Cash donations will also be accepted. Checks are payable to Catholic Charities of Ashtabula County.

Suggested Donations:

• Boxed Stuffing
• Potatoes/Instant Potatoes
• Gravy
• Canned Fruits & Vegetables
• Cranberry Sauce
• Canned Pumpkin/Pie Shells
• Condensed Milk
• Rice/Noodles
• Boxed Macaroni & Cheese
• Canned Soup
• Canned Pasta/Sauce
• Crackers
• Cake Mix/Canned Frosting
• Pudding/Jell-O
• Peanut Butter/Jelly
• Paper Towels/Toilet Paper
• Dish Soap/Laundry Soap

Contact Rachel Sluss at [email protected].