The giving season is just getting started and area thrift stores and pantries are doing everything they can to keep up with the needs of the community. Connie Litzner, volunteer at the Hope Chest Resale Shop and St. Ignace Food Pantry, said this time of year is critical because of the many layoffs from summer jobs.

As winter approaches, all area pantries and thrift stores are calling for more non-perishable food items.

"I know the food pantry needs canned goods. As far as the store goes, we need mostly volunteers," Mrs. Litzner said.

Both the resale shop and food pantry are operated by the St. Ignace Area Hope charity, which is sponsored by six area churches. The food pantry is also available to help those in need with emergency shelter, transportation, and utility or medical expenses. Call the St. Ignace Area Hope hotline for assistance at 643- 6780.

In Cedarville, volunteers are also preparing for a busy season.

"We can use most any food item," said volunteer Carol Mitchell at the Cedar Post Thrift Store in Cedarville.

The Cedar Post Thrift Store is prepared for the coming cold season demand for warm clothing.

"We're fairly well stocked at the moment, but things go quickly, especially now that the weather's getting cold," said volunteer Joe Kurlonko.

The thrift store is also accepting everything from toilet paper to toothpaste, and canned milk to freezable meats as well as warm clothing, she said. All donations are welcome, with the exception of summer clothes and large items the store doesn't have room for.

The West Mackinac County Pantry in Engadine, however, seems to be in particular need of donations.

"Oh man, we need everything this year. Our inventory has really flipped already," said pantry director Nancy Polachek. "It seems like every week there's more needy people."

The pantry now needs donations of every kind of food and paper product.

For more information on where to donate goods or to volunteer, contact Cedar Post Thrift Store at 484-9512, Hope Chest Resale Shop and St. Ignace Food Pantry at 643- 7360, and West Mackinac County Pantry at 477-6388.