Pasco Sheriff's Food Drive Under Way

The Pasco Sheriff's Office is now accepting donations and applications for its holiday food basket program.

Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco hopes to provide 1,000 families with baskets that include frozen turkeys and all the trimmings.

"Members and volunteers with the Pasco Sheriff's Office work extremely hard between now and the holidays to collect and assemble these food baskets. You can't help but get personal satisfaction when you give these baskets to Pasco County citizens who need a little cheer.  We appreciate anything people can give so we can spread a little Christmas spirit to people who might not otherwise be able to afford a nice Christmas dinner for their family," sheriff's office spokesman Doug Tobin said.

Donations of nonperishable food items can be made at any Pasco Sheriff's Office building, including the District 1 Office at 7432 Little Road in New Port Richey.

Items needed include canned vegetables, yams and cranberry sauce; instant mashed potatoes, boxed stuffing and powdered or non-perishable milk. Monetary donations made my money order or check also are welcome—no cash can be accepted, the release stated.

All donations must be received by Thursday, Dec. 13.

Families who wish to receive a basket must fill out an online application by Dec. 5. Those who are selected will be mailed a confirmation card that will provide details for picking up the basket on Dec. 20 at one of four pickup points in the county—no deliveries will be made, according to the sheriff's office.

To donate or for more information, contact the sheriff's community office at 727-834-3376. The office is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.