The Mercer Island Youth and Family Services Foundation is lending a helping hand in gathering funding for the Youth and Family Services Department’s annual Winter Holiday Gift program this season.

The task of fundraising for the program — which supports approximately 50 families on Mercer Island experiencing economic insecurity, including 90 children under the age of 18 within those families — has suffered due to pandemic-related staffing cuts in the spring.

YFS seeks an additional $13,000 to serve all families, and any excess donations will be allocated to its food pantry.

To donate online, visit https://miyfs.org/; personal checks made out to the MIYFS Foundation can be deposited (in an envelope) in the secure white lockbox in the City Hall parking lot or mailed to 2040 84th Ave. SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040.

Due to the pandemic, YFS cannot accept pre-purchased gifts or food items this year.

* The Mercer Island Fire Department will be holding its annual food drive for the YFS food pantry from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 25 at the south and north QFCs. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, firefighters will be accepting only gift cards or cash. The food pantry’s need has nearly doubled since March and is currently at a historically high demand.

* YFS will be opening its Christmas tree lot on Nov. 28. For updated hours, days and location, visit https://miyfs.org/