Eligible families need to sign up by Wednesday, Dec. 20, to receive a box of goods to make a Christmas dinner.

Assistance is given through the Care and Share Drive, led by the VFW Post 8967 each year that collects food so that underprivileged families in Port Aransas will have a Christmas dinner.

Registration may be made at city hall, 710 W. Ave. A, or at the post home. They must provide a name, complete street address, telephone number and proof of residency in Port Aransas.

Cash and food items will be accepted for the drive through Sunday, Dec. 17.

David Davidson, chairman of the drive, said donations of nonperishable food items to complement a Christmas dinner still are needed. Cash contributions also will be accepted to pay for perishables, such as hams and turkeys.

Volunteers will man a table at the Family Center IGA, 416 Alister St., from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 16 and 17.

“Get a little extra as you shop, be thankful you have food on your table for Christmas, and donate,' said Davidson.

On weekdays, contributions may be put in a box at the Family Center or dropped off at the post home, 311 N. Alister St.

Cash contributions may be mailed to Care and Share, c/o VFW Post 8967, P.O. Box 1447, Port Aransas, TX 78373.

VFW members and volunteer helpers will sort and box the food during the week of Dec. 18, then add the hams and turkeys. Boxes will be packed, and deliveries will be made Thursday, Dec. 21. Families receiving the boxes must make sure someone is at home to receive the food.

For further information, call the VFW at 749-6534.