Charitable giving is highest during the holidays, but people need help all year long. The Western Wake Crisis Ministry helps about 1,000 people per month — every month — put food on the table.

That’s 350 families in Apex and Holly Springs who can afford to pay a bill or stretch their food budgets a bit further thanks to the support of the community.

The Crisis Ministry recently changed its food pantry model, offering families a choice about the foods they take home. The organization also makes an effort to include fresh items like milk, cheese, frozen meats and produce when they are available.

Current items with the highest demand are toilet paper, powdered laundry detergent, dish soap, pasta, dry pinto and black beans, dry and canned milk, fresh fruits and vegetables, and low-sodium canned goods.

Donations of food, office supplies and other household staples are accepted Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ministry’s office, 103 East Chatham Street in Apex. They may also be taken to Apex Baptist or Apex United Methodist churches Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

See wwcm.org for more information on getting involved.