Lewis County holiday drive seeks food, winter clothing and essentials

The Kiwanis Club of Lewis County and OSG Troop 315 “The Black River Valley” have launched the annual Pack the Pantry Warm the Valley drive, seeking food, winter clothing and other essentials for neighbors in need across Lewis County.

Priority food donations include canned tuna, chicken, beans, peanut butter, grains, low-sodium canned fruit and vegetables, soups and shelf-stable milk. Organizers are also seeking insulated waterproof coats, thermal base layers, winter boots, blankets, new socks and undergarments. Cash donations are accepted for organizers to purchase supplies directly.

Drop-off sites listed for the drive are Red Rooster in Croghan, Lake Effect Tech in Lowville, Redmonds Redemption in Greig, Marinos Pizzeria in Lyons Falls, Turin Library and Bath & Doggie Works Pet Salon in Constableville. Donors are asked to check expiration dates on food and make sure clothing is clean and in good repair.

The effort comes as local organizations provide food assistance and other support to Lewis County residents. The 2025 Lewis County Community Resource Guide lists the Lowville Food Pantry at 5502 Trinity Avenue in Lowville. The pantry’s listed phone number is 315-376-7431; donors and people seeking assistance should confirm hours by phone before visiting.

Lewis County said in its 2025 resource information that more than 2,600 people, about 10% of the county’s population, receive SNAP benefits. The Lowville Food Pantry is affiliated with the Food Bank of Central New York and also houses the Christmas Sharing Program and Santa for Seniors.

Fort Drum soldiers helped open and stock the Lowville Food Pantry in 2021 and 2022. The pantry later moved to a larger building following a $25,000 matching donation. The county guide also lists the Food Bank of Central New York for SNAP application assistance and the Lewis County Office for the Aging for home-delivered meals at 315-376-5313.

The drive is part of the holiday season in the Black River Valley. Residents can donate at the listed locations, with food, winter clothing, household essentials and financial contributions all accepted for the collection.