While it is important for Oregon SC to foster development, education and enjoyment for our players on the field, we also pride ourselves on being a positive member of our community — and teaching kids the importance of giving back.

To help advance that concept, we're happy to announce that we will be holding a food drive for the Oregon Area Food Pantry this weekend, Oct. 7-8.

We're asking for club members to donate to the food pantry and help fill their shelves for their next distribution. Last fall, Oregon SC donated 400 pounds of food to the pantry from our 4U-8U In-House families. Our goal is to collect at least 500 pounds of food for donation in this drive.

Donation bins/boxes will be at the following locations on Saturday, Oct. 7 and Sunday, Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.:

• Windcrest Park (650 Windward Way, Oregon)
• Stone Ridge Park (635 Cherry Wood Drive, Oregon)
• Alpine (153 Alpine Parkway, Oregon)

Also, a table/bin will be set up near the brown and tan sheds near NKE and PVE from 3:30-5 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 8.

The Oregon Area Food Pantry will accept all non-perishable food items and toiletries, but has a particular need for the following:

• Peanut butter
• Canned chicken
• Canned fruits and vegetables
• Chef Boyardee cans
• Cereal
• Laundry soap
• Toilet paper
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrushes

The pantry cannot accept expired food, home-canned foods, home-baked goods, opened packages or any food you would not feed to your family.

Did you know the Oregon Area Food Pantry also accepts monetary donations? You can easily support the pantry by scanning their QR code below.

Please mark your calendars to make your donation Saturday or Sunday. If you have any questions, please call or text Food Drive Coordinator Michelle Sweberg at 608-219-4731 or email food-drive@oregonsc.com.