For the past 30 years, the Perry Hall United Methodist Church Food Pantry has worked to feed local families—but director Margaret Hubbard says the need seems to be growing.

"We're helping more families. Unfortunately, times aren't getting any better. We don't get as many food items from the government," Hubbard said.

Between Oct. 6 and Oct. 13, the pantry at 9515 Belair Rd. is planning a major food drive. Mailers to 100 area businesses and organizations have already been sent out, Hubbard said.

In addition to cash donations, the pantry is seeking the following items:

The mailer urges, "All we ask is that the items are not expired, damaged, opened/used or any food you would not eat."

Between January and August of this year, the organization has provided food for 231 families, including approximately 755 people. That's nearly as many people served by the pantry during all of 2011, according to Hubbard.

Fortunately, she added, a $2,500 donation from the new Perry Hall Giant has already been used to help the additional families.

Patch met with Hubbard and other volunteers as they prepared for last year's holiday season. They said that area residents are often surprised to find out that hunger is a problem in such an affluent community.

Raising awareness is the first hurdle, followed by requesting donations, Hubbard said. 

"Whatever we can get, we'll be happy to have," she said.

The Perry Hall United Methodist Church Food Pantry operates 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays-Tuesdays; 1-4 p.m. Wednesdays; 10 a.m.-noon Thursdays-Fridays; and 1-4 p.m. Saturdays. It is located on the lower level of the church at 9515 Belair Rd. in Perry Hall.

Clients and food donors may call 410-256-1897 for additional information.