The Food Pantries for the Capital District is working to ensure that local food pantries are prepared to serve the most vulnerable residents in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Local food pantries that are part of the network include those located in Altamont, Bethlehem, Guilderland, the Hilltowns, and New Scotland.

The organization’s Food Access Referral Line is answered by specialists who can provide up-to-date resource information for local food pantries and food access (schools/pop-up food drops) programs for those in need of food, diapers, or baby formula. Call 518-458-1167, ext. 108 for a referral.

Distributing millions of pounds of food and monetary resources annually, The Food Pantries network includes more than 65 Capital Region food pantries in Albany, Rensselaer, and Saratoga counties.

Local food pantries are preparing for an increase in demand. You can help by doing the following:

— Make a cash donation at thefoodpantries.org;

— Donate food, personal hygiene, household products, and diapers to your neighborhood pantries;

— Find a map of the Capital Region food pantries at thefoodpantries.org or call the network’s office at 518-458-1167;

— Volunteer: The Food Pantries is accepting individuals, corporations, and organizations to help; call  Kathy Marco at 518-458-1167, ext. 104.

— Melissa Hale-Spencer