OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR) kicked off its annual Holiday Drive on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, marking the start of a month-long community initiative to collect food, essential items, and gifts for local families in need.

The drive, running through Dec. 12, will support multiple local organizations including Brother’s Keeper, Interfaith Emergency Services, Veterans Helping Veterans, and the Salvation Army.

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“Supporting our community is at the heart of what we do,” said Fire Chief Clint Welborn. “Through this holiday drive, we hope to alleviate some of the burdens faced by families and individuals during this season.”

Residents can drop off donations at any of OFR’s seven stations throughout Ocala:

  • Station #1 – 505 NW MLK Jr. Ave.
  • Station #2 – 2701 SE 36 Ave.
  • Station #3 – 320 NE Eighth Ave.
  • Station #4 – 3300 SW 20 St.
  • Station #5 – 2340 NE 25 Ave.
  • Station #6 – 5220 SW 50 Ct.
  • Station #7 – 885 SE 31 St.

Accepted items include:

  • Canned items (meats, fruits, vegetables, soup)
  • Dry goods (pasta, rice, dried beans, cereal)
  • Other non-perishables (fruit cups, juice boxes, peanut butter, crackers)
  • Toiletries (soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes)
  • Baby items (baby food, diapers, wipes)
  • New, unwrapped toys in original packaging

All contributions will be distributed through the Bring the Harvest Home initiative in partnership with Marion County.

Collection runs through December 12 at all Ocala Fire stations. For more information, residents can contact OFR’s administration office at 352.629.8306.