In this time of holiday parties and gift giving, it can be tough to remember those who are less fortunate. For these individuals, the holiday season only seems to magnify their need. Loudoun Interfaith Relief, which operates an emergency food pantry, served 56,400 people last year alone in the area. Forty-three percent of those people were children under the age of 18.

Across Loudoun are several food pantries that are dedicated to feed the hungry in the county. As the holidays grow near, the need for food banks increases; and these food banks need support more now than ever. So help and family in need this year, and as you enjoy your warm cooked meal on Christmas, you can know that you helped fed others less fortunate with a healthy and well-balanced meal.

The Middleburg food pantry, Seven Loaves, is hosting the "Comfort for the Sole" food drive through Dec. 24. They are accepting nonperishable food, canned goods and gently used clothing for needy families and individuals in the area. In return for your donation, you receive a gift certificate for boots and clothing at the Tack Box.

Currently items such as canned vegetables, fruits, meats, soups and beans, peanut butter, jelly, honey, rice and pasta, tomato sauce, macaroni and cheese, flour, sugar, vegetable oil, condiments, breakfast cereal, ground coffee and 100 percent juices are in urgent need.

You do not need to make a large donation; any nonperishable food is welcome.

Please donate foods at the following locations:

• Tack Box, 2 W. Federal St., Middleburg, VA 20117, 540-687-3231
• Loudoun Interfaith Relief, 750 Miller Drive, Suite A-1, Leesburg, VA 20175, 703- 777-5911.
• Messiah's Market at Community Church, 19790 Ashburn Rd, Ashburn, VA 20147, 571-209-5000
• Grace Ministries at Crossroads, 43454 Crossroads Dr, Ashburn, VA 20147, 703-729-5100
• Guilford Baptist Church, 1001 Ruritan Circle, Sterling, VA 20164, 703-430-6444
• Middleburg Bank in Purcellville, 431 East Main St, Purcellville, VA 20132, 703-777-6327
• Purcellville Library, 220 E Main St, Purcellville, VA 20132, 540-338-7235