Local Charleston churches are getting into the holiday spirit by giving.

Lynn Collins, from the Charleston Area Churches Food Pantry, located in the First Christian Church on Fourth and Jackson streets, said that the need for food is not more at this time of year – the hungry are hungry all year round, but giving increases.

The food pantry gives out nutritionally-balanced boxes of food. There is enough food in the boxes to feed a family of about three or four members for three days.

The box includes foods like meat, peanut butter, beans, fruit, vegetables, mashed potatoes, soup, pasta, crackers, cereal, sugar, flour, baking soda and dry milk.

The food pantry also gives away paper items to anyone in need.

“If clients have food stamps, they aren’t allowed to use them to purchase paper items like toilet paper,” Collins said. “Usually I will supply or buy toilet paper.”

Laundry soap is also offered.

“You can’t get the laundry soap with the food stamps and everybody needs to wash their clothes,” Collins said.

The food pantry is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:30-4 p.m.

In November, more than 245 families were fed. That is about 836 people, and with all the food they are given 7,524 meals can be prepared.

The food pantry helps anyone in Charleston who is in need. They serve students, the mentally disabled and anyone who cannot afford to feed themselves or their families.

“What we are most in need of, and what would be the most advantageous to us, is cash or change. I know your pockets are not bulging with money, but the change adds up,” Collins said.

Lunch is also offered to anyone in need in at the Presbyterian Church from 11-1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

In addition, Charleston Community Church is holding their annual community Christmas lunch and dinner.

Lunch will be served at 1 p.m. and dinner at 5:30 p.m.

“Everyone from the community who might be in need or people who are alone for the holiday is invited,” said Laura Bollan, who helps do all the preparatory work for that day. “We will be serving the traditional turkey and ham with all the fixins,” Bollan said.

If people need a ride, or want a meal delivered to their home they can call and request one at 345-4910.

Volunteers are always needed to help out during the dinner or to help deliver meals and pick people up.

Also, any food donations are welcome.

“The community has always come through,” Bollan said. “They really support the event. It’s a great time of fellowship and food.”