Editor’s note: The following story is the first in a series on the needs at area food pantries.

PRINCETON — The spirit of giving is appreciated not only around the Christmas holiday but throughout the year, according to Vanessa Hoffeditz, director of the Tri-Counties Opportunities Council food pantry in Princeton.

Hoffeditz said the Princeton food pantry, located at 1019 N. Main St., has served well more than 300 individuals each month during at least the last six months. Some of those people are regulars, but the food pantry has been averaging 15-20 new individuals each month.