POULSBO — As many families throughout North Kitsap are enjoying the prospect of an enormous Thanksgiving turkey and a Christmas tree ringed deep with presents, others are hoping that they will have enough food to get them through the fall and winter months.

Despite all the celebrations, holidays are tough times for some here — something that local food banks like Fishline are trying to rectify.

Special food and toy drives are currently underway at the 3rd Avenue location with the aim and hope of improving the lives of our less fortunate friends and neighbors.

“As we approach the holiday season, we are especially aware of the many families in our community that are in need of emergency services through Fishline,” said executive director Tricia Sullivan. “Recent events have reminded us how deeply connected we are to each other.”

In addition to its normal food drive efforts, the Poulsbo food bank is working to collect donations for its annual holiday baskets and toy shop.

“Any donations of food are welcome at any time of year, but especially during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season,” Sullivan explained.

Fishline began collecting the names of Thanksgiving basket recipients Monday and will wrap up that portion of the program Nov. 16. The baskets should include a holiday-style dinner for four people but may also have breakfast and lunch foods as well. Names of families and individuals wanting to receive Christmas baskets will be collected Nov. 30 through Dec. 14 at the food bank.

Because Santa Claus has no intention of missing anyone this Christmas, the holiday toy shop will once again open next month at Fishline. The program, which is free to qualifying families, will accept new toys and stocking stuffers for infants, young children and teenagers through Dec. 10.

The food bank is always in need of staple items such as peanut butter, tuna fish, rice, pasta, cereal, canned vegetables, toiletries and laundry detergent. Cash donations are also beneficial to the region’s needy because it allows officials at Fishline to purchase perishable products like meat, eggs and margarine, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables.

“As you can imagine, the holiday season is a busy time for the food bank,” Sullivan said, noting that donated labor is also a great gift for Fishline. “But many hands make the work lighter.”

For more information or to volunteer at Fishline Food Bank, call 779-5190.